A founder member of 1970s disco act KC & The Sunshine Band has died in an accident on a Florida construction site.

Rhythm guitarist Jerome Smith fell off the bulldozer he was operating and was crushed by the machine, band spokesman Bruce Merrin said.

The 47-year-old, who leaves a wife, daughter and grand-daughter - was working as a heavy equipment operator at the time of the accident in West Palm Beach.

Harry "KC" Casey - who still tours with the group, famous for hits such as Get Down Tonight and That's The Way (I Like It) - said he was "totally shocked by this overwhelming tragedy".

He called Smith "a dear friend and a gifted performer", adding: "He influenced future guitarists and many groups with his playing. His memory lives on."

---

Helena to star in Planet Of The Apes

British star Helena Bonham Carter is set to appear in the re-make of Planet Of The Apes, according to US showbiz trade magazine Variety.

The star of Room With A View and Fight Club will play an ape princess in the updated version of the classic film.

Also starring in the film, which is being made by Sleepy Hollow director Tim Burton, are Mark Wahlberg and Tim Roth.

---

Sir Paul "most admired by over 50s"

Sir Paul McCartney is the person most admired the over 50s for his achievements and approach to life, a new survey reveals.

The former Beatle was regarded as an inspiration by one in three of those surveyed. Rolling Stone contemporary Mick Jagger received just 3% of the votes.

Sir Cliff Richard was held in high esteem by one in three women and one in five men admired Lady Thatcher, the Saga Holidays poll revealed.

---

New school drama from McBeal creator

Ally McBeal creator David E Kelley has gone back to the classroom for his new TV venture - a quirky weekly drama set in a fictitious US high school.

The Emmy Award-winning former lawyer says his admiration for teachers inspired him to write the new show.

"I have wanted to do this for almost four years," said Kelley, 44, whose credits include LA Law and Chicago Hope.

"I really believe teachers are the most powerful people in the world and the least recognised and probably the least paid," he added.