Everything Changes: Jason Orange leaves Take That

Jason Orange has announced that he will no longer be a member of Take That.

The 44-year-old singer made his decision last week and informed bandmates Gary Barlow, Mark Owen and Howard Donald, who will continue as a trio.

Orange said in a statement: "I want to start by saying how proud I am of what we have achieved together over the years. However, 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."

In response, the remaining band members said: "This is a sad day for us. Jason leaving is a huge loss both professionally and even more so personally. "

It is a stark contrast to the acrimonious circumstances when original member Robbie Williams left the band in 1995 to pursue a solo career.

Take That continued as a foursome until February 1996 when their split devastated teenage girls all over the world.

Orange's statement was posted on the bands official website and saw him thank his colleagues and fans: "I have spent some of the best years of my life with Take That and I'd like to thank everyone who has been a part of my journey, including my band mates, who I feel are like brothers to me.

"Most especially my gratitude goes to all of the good and kind, beautiful and ever-loyal fans of the band, without whom none of this could have been possible. Thank you."

The band's comeback in 2005 led to a hugely popular comeback album Beautiful World and several tours which led to the 2010 return of Robbie Williams to the band for the Progress Tour which became the most successful tour in UK and Irish history.

However Orange's statement claims he had been unhappy in the band for some time.

He said: "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.

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."