'Last Night' heartthrobs The Vamps played a great April Fool's prank earlier today by announcing the departure of their guitarist, James McVey due to tension in the group. 

A message posted from the band's collective Twitter page in the early hours of this morning (April 1) explained that McVey had decided to leave and they would be auditioning new members soon:

"Thanks for the good times. Hurts accepting your decision but know it's for the best. X @TheVampsJames. Looking to start auditions for our new guitarist from next week. Keep watching for where we are holding these."

McVey also took to his official Twitter account soon after and celebrated April Fool's Day by continuing the prank that had some fans very worried by adding: "Sorry to announce that the 'meet the vamps' tour will be my last set of shows with the boys... We've grown apart and feel it's for the best."

He then reassured his followers that it was all a complete wind-up and that he isn't leaving The Vamps: "Sorry to disappoint some of you (I have seen some pretty naughty tweets)... But I'm not leaving just yet MUHAHAHAHAHA."

The Vamps are performing their final date as the main support act on The Wanted's tour later tonight and member Connor Ball explained that they're all sad to have finished the high profile run of dates. 

Watch the band's latest music video below: