Steps have announced they have split up.

The five member group, who have sold more than 12 million records, announced the decision to go their separate ways in a statement.

The band, who sold out 120 UK arenas, were recently presented with a commemorative disc by Sir Tim Rice to celebrate their entry into the top 100 acts of all time.

In the statement, Faye, Claire, Lisa, H and Lee said: “After five incredible years, we have decided it’s time to move on to new challenges.

“We have always said that when the time came, we would leave as good friends and go out while we were on top, as although we are very sad, that’s what we have done.

“We are looking forward to making our next plans but for now we just want to send our heartfelt thanks and love to all the people who have supported us – you truly are the best fans in the world.”

Steps had two number one singles during their five year career – Heartbeat/Tragedy which claimed the top spot in January 1999 and Stomp which went to number one in October last year.

They released four albums – Step One, Steptacular, Buzz and the greatest hits compilation Gold, which has so far sold more than 1.4 million copies.