UB40 Minus One

UB40 frontman Ali Campbell has quit the band after nearly 30 years.

The singer said he took the "agonising" decision to leave because of management problems.

In an open letter to fans on his website, he explained: "As one of the founder members of UB40, I have put the band first in my life for the last 28 years and am deeply saddened at the ending of that relationship.”

"No words can express how upset I feel today that I have been forced to make this decision.”

"I am perhaps most upset on behalf of the fans, who have stuck with us through thick and thin throughout the years, and are the best fans in the world."

The band, which includes Campbell's brother, Robin, will continue without him.

He added: "This decision has not been taken lightly and has come as a result of a long, painful and agonising thought process.”

"I know UB40 will carry on successfully without me and I wish them all the very best - they have been my family for the last 28 years and will always be my brothers."

The 48-year-old denied reports that he was quitting because of arguments over his solo career.