Noel Gallagher explains why he quit Oasis

Noel Gallagher has wasted no time in explaining his reasons for leaving Oasis, a decision he announced on the band's website yesterday, 28 August.

Writing on his blog Tales From The Middle Of Nowhere, Gallagher says the details for his split from the group are "not important and of too great a number to list," but he does cite what he calls a "lack of support and understanding" from his management and fellow band members.

Here's is Gallagher's statement, which was posted today, 29 August:

"Dearly beloved, it is with a heavy heart and a sad face that I say this to you this morning," the guitarist began. "As of last Friday, August 28, I have been forced to leave the Manchester rock 'n' roll pop group Oasis.

"The details are not important and of too great a number to list. But I feel you have the right to know that the level of verbal and violent intimidation towards me, my family, friends and comrades has become intolerable. And the lack of support and understanding from my management and band mates has left me with no other option than to get me cape and seek pastures new.

"I would like firstly to offer my apologies to them kids in Paris who'd paid money and waited all day to see us only to be let down AGAIN by the band. Apologies are probably not enough, I know, but I'm afraid it's all I've got.

"While I'm on the subject, I'd like to say to the good people of V Festival that experienced the same thing. Again, I can only apologise - although I don't know why, it was nothing to do with me. I was match fit and ready to be brilliant. Alas, other people in the group weren't up to it.

"In closing I would like to thank all the Oasis fans, all over the world. The last 18 years have been truly, truly amazing (and I hate that word, but today is the one time I'll deem it appropriate). A dream come true. I take with me glorious memories.

Concluding his post, Gallagher wrote, "Now, if you'll excuse me, I have a family and a football team to indulge. I'll see you somewhere down the road. It's been a fuckin' pleasure. Thanks very much. Goodbye. Noel Gallagher."

He says goodbye, but something tells us we haven't seen the last of Noel. That long-promised solo album is bound to be a reality before long.