Quo drummer Matt Letley quits

Moving on: Matt Letley

Status Quo drummer Matt Letley is to move on after 12 years, the band have announced.

But he says his decision isn’t connected with next year’s Frantic Four reunion shows.

He’ll play his last gig with Francis Rossi, Rick Parfitt, Andy Bown and John ‘Rhino’ Edwards on Wednesday, December 19, at the O2 Arena in London.

Letley says: “It’s been a fantastic journey – but I have decided that now is the right time for me to leave Quo and move on to something new.

“No doubt there will be much conjecture that this is somehow related to the upcoming reunion gigs.

“But I’d like to assure everyone that it has no bearing on my decision. Indeed, I wish the guys every success with this tour and certainly hope to come along to see one of the shows.”

Letley, who previously worked with Bob Geldof, Hank Marvin and Kim Wilde, among others, adds: “I should like to take this opportunity to thank the guys in the band, our fantastic crew, Simon and the girls in the office for their friendship and professionalism.

“Most of all I thank the fans, without whom I should not have had the chance to play with one of the best rock’n'roll bands in the world.”

Quo manager Simon Porter says: “The band would like to thank Matt for a dozen years of loyal service.

“He’s a true pro and it’s been a pleasure to work with him. We’re delighted that his last hurrah with the band will be at such a prestigious London show and we wish him all the best for the future.”

In November Classic Rock revealed Quo’s classic lineup – Rossi and Parfitt plus Alan Lancaster and John Coghlan – would reunite for a series of shows in 2013. They’re now considering extending the run.

Coghlan says via his Facebook page: “Good luck for the future to Matt Letley – a great guy.”