Joe Strummer's widow discovers rare Clash memorabilia

The widow of rock star Joe Strummer has unearthed a treasure trove of material by the former Clash frontman, she said.

Lucinda Mellor is planning to publish a book containing unreleased songs and rarities, with his friend the artist Damien Hirst, she told The Independent Magazine.

After his death five years ago at the age of 50 following a heart attack, Ms Mellor went through some suitcases and found that each one contained about 30 plastic bags.



"I suddenly realised that each bag was pertinent to a week on tour or a session - each bag told a story which was amazing," she said.

She called in help, including from the artist Gordon McHarg, and all the material found - plus some Clash lyrics discovered in mouldy tea chests - have been put on file, photographed, carefully stored and catalogued.

"One day we will do an amazing book," she said.