JASON ORANGE HAS quit British pop band Take That, saying “I no longer wish to do this”.

Source: Ian West/PA Wire

The 44-year-old singer is said to have announced his decision to bandmates Gary Barlow, Mark Owen and Howard Donald last week.

In a letter on the band’s website, Orange thanked the fans and said he was “proud” of what the band had achieved, but felt that he did not want to “commit to recording and promoting a new album”.

Source: Doug Peters/EMPICS Entertainment

At the end of The Progress Tour I began to question whether it might be the right time for me to not continue on with Take That… There have been no fallings out, only a decision on my part that I no longer wish to do this.

He said that Gary, Mark and Howard will continue as a trio with his “full knowledge and blessing” and that they have his support and encouragement to start “another chapter for the band”.

The lads back in the day Source: PA Archive/Press Association Images

In a joint statement from the three remaining members, the band said they realised “a couple of years ago” that Jason had reservations, but had hoped he would change his mind.

Jason’s energy and belief in what this band could achieve has made it what it is today, and we’ll forever be grateful for his enthusiasm, dedication and inspiration over the years.

Aw. Join us in song, in remembrance of the good times.