The Bluetones

The Bluetones

The Bluetones are calling time on their 18-year career and have decided to split-up after they complete a farewell tour of the UK.

The band, whose biggest hit was Slight Return, have announced they will hit the road in September and then disband the group.

In a statement posted on their website, the group said: "We're afraid the time has come and we must say farewell... After 17 years of touring and six studio albums, The Bluetones have decided that this Autumn's tour will be our last."

"We will be playing a career-spanning set of songs as a way to say thank you to our loyal supporters and hopefully signing off with a bit of a bang."

The Britpop band formed in 1993 and shot to fame with the release of their debut album in 1996.

 Over their career they released 13 Top 40 singles and three Top 10 albums, though never rekindled the massive success of their debut.