The Arctic Monkeys, who were voted the best British rock band earlier this year, said bass player Andy Nicholson has left the group after pulling out of a North American tour last month.

"We are sad to tell everyone that Andy is no longer with the band," the three other bandmates said on their web site.

"We have been mates with Andy for a long time and have been through some amazing things together that no one can take away. We all wish Andy the very best."

The band said that Nick O'Malley, who stood in when Nicholson was absent from the recent North America tour, would carry on playing bass for their remaining shows this summer.

The bass player's initial departure last month tour was blamed on "fatigue following an intensive period of touring".

No further details were given for why he had quit the indie rock bank.

--------------------------------------------------

I'm guessing there has to be something more to it to make him leave a band who are becoing a pretty huge success. As fatigue is hardly a reason worth mentioning...Opinions?

Peace Cena Sells...But Who's Buying!?