Noughties pop star issues emotional statement as they quit group after 26 years

Singer Natasha Hamilton has issued an emotional message as she quits Atomic Kitten

Pop star Natasha Hamilton has announced she has quit Atomic Kitten.

The singer, 42, issued an emotional statement as she confirmed the news to her fans. She has been part of the group for 26 years but is now looking ahead to a solo career. In her message, she said: "26 incredible years, writing so many wonderful chapters, but now the time has come for me to close the book on this one."

Natasha will perform with the band for a final time on Sunday. She joined the pop band when she replaced Heidi Range and was involved in the group's hey-day. The singer told fans: "I've lived the most incredible life, travelling the world many times over, bringing so much joy to your lives, performing songs that catapulted us into the stratosphere at such a young age.

"The ride hasn't always been smooth but I wouldn't change a single thing. I've laughed and cried many a time with the girls, experienced so many surreal moments and been blessed with a career spanning 26 years - it's been incredible and something I will always cherish."

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