Matt Letley Leaves Status Quo

He informed fans of his decision to leave the group via the following blog post on his official website on Monday: "It's been a fantastic journey over the past twelve years or so but I have decided that now is the right time for me to leave Quo and move on to something new. My final show will be at the O2 on Wednesday.

"No doubt there will be much conjecture that this is somehow related to the upcoming reunion gigs but I'd like to assure everyone that it has no bearing on my decision. Indeed I wish the guys every success with this tour and certainly hope to come along to see one of the shows!

"I should like to take this opportunity to thank the guys in the band, our fantastic crew and Simon and the girls in the office for their friendship and professionalism. Most of all I thank the fans without whom I should not have had the chance to play with one of the best rock and roll bands in the world."