Jason Orange quits Take That: 'I no longer wish to do this'

Earlier this evening, Take That's Jason Orange announced that he no longer wants to be part of the band and has now officially quit.

The band issued an official statement on the news tonight (September 25) and Orange explained his reasons for the tough decision, admitting there are no bad feelings and it just seemed like the right thing to do:

"At a band meeting last week I confirmed to Mark, Gary and Howard that I do not wish to commit to recording and promoting a new album. 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. At the start of this year and with my full knowledge and blessing the guys began writing new material."

He continued: "There have been no fallings out, only a decision on my part that I no longer wish to do this. I know how much Mark, Gary and Howard enjoy writing and making music, and they know that they have my full support and encouragement to continue on with what is to be another chapter for the band."

Remaining members, namely Mark, Gary and Howard, added a note to the end of the press release about Orange's departure, which reads: "We first became aware of Jason’s reservations a couple of years ago but had hoped that by giving him the desired time and space he may begin to feel differently."

"This has not been the case and we now have to accept and fully respect his decision which we know hasn’t been an easy one. 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."

Watch Take That's video for 'The Flood' here: