Irish heart-throbs Westlife have assured fans in Brighton the shows will go on despite Bryan McFadden quitting.

Tickets for the band's three Easter dates at the Brighton Centre have almost sold out.

The future of the band has been in doubt since Bryan announced he was leaving to spend more time with his wife Kerry and their children.

However, Westlife's management confirmed the band would complete a 48-date tour of the UK and Ireland as a foursome.

A spokesman said: "Nicky, Kian, Shane and Mark are rehearsing for the tour.

"Westlife would like to reassure fans the recent news will in no way affect Westlife's high standards. There will be lots of hits, new songs from the number one album Turnaround and plenty of surprises throughout the tour.

"They are sorry Bryan won't be joining them but can't wait to get on the road and do what they do best."

Westlife have sold 32 million records globally, had five multi-platinum albums and 12 number one singles in the UK.

They will play the Brighton Centre on April 9 plus two shows on April 10.

A spokeswoman for the Brighton Centre said: "We have now had official confirmation that Bryan McFadden won't be touring but the rest of the band will be so it's business as usual."