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Westlife to split

Managed by Louis Walsh, the Irish boyband announced yesterday their decision to part ways after a farewell tour scheduled for next year.

In their statement, they expressed:

“This decision is completely amicable. Having spent all of our adult lives together thus far, we wish to take a well-deserved break and explore new opportunities. Our heartfelt gratitude goes to our fans who have accompanied us on this incredible journey.”

This separation marks the conclusion of a record-breaking career during which Nicky Byrne, 33, Kian Egan, 31, Mark Feehily, 31, and Shane Filan, 32, achieved over 44 million record sales.

Out of their 26 top ten hits, fourteen reached the No 1 position, with songs like Flying Without Wings and Unbreakable leading the way.

A source close to the band, whose members are estimated to each be worth £10million, remarked: “This is the end. There’s no animosity; they remain good friends.

“However, all good things must come to a conclusion, and they are eager to pursue individual projects.

“This decision was not made lightly. They could continue to produce albums well into their later years, given the trajectory of their career — but now they seek quality time and focus to explore their personal interests.”

Westlife will bid farewell to fans during their Greatest Hits Tour, beginning in May. They also plan to release an album featuring their most popular songs.

Initially launched as a five-member group including Brian McFadden in July 1998, the band signed with Simon Cowell’s label. They started off as Westside but changed their name upon realizing that it was already in use by another band.

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