The Fratellis have posted emotional messages on their website forum hinting they have split up.

Singer Jon Fratelli – real name John Lawler - wrote on thefratellis.com: "We have no plans to work together right now", he said.

"Sometimes things just work out that way. Mince, Baz and I are working on music but not with each other.

"Your passion is appreciated more than we will ever be able to say. We'll forever give our hearts and souls to music and to you guys who want to hear what we do."

Bassist Baz Fratelli – real name Barry Wallace – wrote in a separate post: "From the very first day we got together The Fratellis never had a plan as such, we knew we were good, we knew we had a chance to make it.

"Turns out we were right, everything fell into place and we've spent the last five or so years touring the world sharing this great music with you all.

"At this particular point in time though we've found ourselves making music still but just not together. This is just the way it goes I suppose sometimes.”

Jon Fratelli has achieved some success with his side-project band Codeine Velvet Club, Mince has joined a heavy metal band and Barry is expected to unveil his plans in the coming months.

(by Scott Colothan)