Rolling Stones guitarist Ronnie Wood has entered a rehabilitation facility for help with alcoholism, his spokeswoman says.

"Following Ronnie's continued battle with alcohol he has entered a period of rehab," the spokeswoman said on condition of anonymity as required by her agency. "His close family and friends say he is seeking help and look forward to his recovery."

Wood, 61, has fought a long battle with alcoholism during his rock 'n' roll career, which started in the 1960s when he played with the band The Faces.

His spokeswoman did not release any details about the treatment he will receive or the clinic that he entered.

The craggy guitarist had seemed to be in good health in recent years. He has developed a strong second career as an artist, selling his paintings through some of London's respected art galleries.

But he has been the focus of feverish recent newspaper reports about his resuming drinking.