STEPS SPLIT

Pop five piece Steps have officially announced their split today ending months of
speculation as to their future.


The five-piece proteges of pop svengali Pete Waterman, said: "After five incredible years,
we have decided it's time to move on to new challenges.


"We have always said that when the time came, we would leave as good friends and
go out while we were on top, as although we are very sad, that's what we have
done."


The statement added: "We are looking forward to making our next plans but for now
we just want to send our heartfelt thanks and love to all the people who have
supported us - you truly are the best fans in the world."


The band have sold over 12 million records and recently released their greatest hits 'Gold'.


The five-piece featuring Faye Tozer, Claire Richards, Lisa Scott
Lee, H (Ian Watkins) and Lee Latchford-Evans were famously denied the Best Newcomer
Award at the Brits when Belle & Sebastian's fanbase mobilised across the internet.