Noel Gallagher looked back in anger tonight as he revealed he had quit Oasis because of what he described as intolerable “violent and verbal intimidation”.
The Mancunian multi-millionaire also blamed a “lack of support and understanding from my management and bandmates” as a reason for his abrupt departure.
Oasis had earlier denied reports they would split. Several tabloids reported that the future of Messrs Gallagher, Gallagher and co was uncertain after they pulled out of last weekend's V Festival, but the band said the cancellation was due to Liam Gallagher's laryngitis. They did, however, says they would take "some well-earned time off" after they had completed their tour.
The band played at Slane Castle in Co Meath in June, a gig attended by dozens of members of their extended family in Ireland, including their mother Peggy Gallagher.
Fans were left reeling last night after Noel announced he could not work with his brother Liam a day longer.
In a statement on his blog at Oasisinet.com, he said: “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.”
He went on to apologise for the fact that the band pulled out of the V Festival after Liam fell ill.
He added: “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.”
He concluded: “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 f****n’ pleasure. Thanks very much. Goodbye. NG.”
Additional reporting: PA