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Noughties pop icon QUITS band after 26 years together with emotional statement
The singer admitted she's outgrown her girl band past
NATASHA Hamilton has announced she's quit Atomic Kitten after 26 years in the girl group.
The pop star, 42, took to Instagram this morning to tell fans of her exit as she looks ahead to her career as a solo artist.
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She wrote: "26 incredible years, writing so many wonderful chapters, but now the time has come for me to close the book on this one."
Natasha will perform her final gig in the band on Sunday.
Flame-haired Natasha was parachuted into the Liverpool group's line-up when she replaced Heidi Range, who went on to become a Sugababe.
She was involved in the group's hit-churning heyday before becoming a loving mum to her four children.
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Natasha has son Josh with nightclub owner and original Love Island champ Fran Cosgrave, Harry with dancer Gavin Hatcher, Alfie with businessman Riad Erraji, and daughter Ella with Five's Ritchie Neville.
The singer only has fond memories of her time as a Kitten.
She told fans: "I've lived the most incredible life, travelling the world many times over, bringing so much joy to your lives, performing songs that catapulted us into the stratosphere at such a young age.
"The ride hasn't always been smooth but I wouldn't change a single thing. I've laughed and cried many a time with the girls, experienced so many surreal moments and been blessed with a career spanning 26 years - it's been incredible and something I will always cherish."
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Since the beginning of the year, Natasha has tried to launch a solo career, but has struggled balancing it with her girl band duties.
However, now she no longer has those commitments, she is focused on developing her own record label and promoting her music.
Atomic Kitten star Natasha Hamilton spotted at Edinburgh bash
Singling out bandmate Liz McClarnon in her farewell message, she wrote: "I wish you all the luck and love world with your work ventures and all the amazing things that are still to come in your life for you - it's been one hell of a ride!"
Fans and friends were quick to send their well-wishes.
Bandmate Liz commented: "Love you."
Ian 'H' Watkins said: "Huge love!"
Jessica Taylor from Liberty X posted: "Massive love to you babe! Hopefully see you out there soon for a proper catch up!"
The best-known Atomic Kitten line-up consisted of Liz, Natasha and Kerry Katona.
Their biggest hits include Whole Again, Eternal Flame and The Tide Is High (Get the Feeling). Debut album, Right Now, was released in 2000 and reached number one in the UK charts.
The following year Kerry left the group after falling pregnant with her first child and was replaced by Jenny Frost.
The girls released two more albums and a greatest hits compilation before disbanding in 2004.
They have reunited periodically for tours and special projects since, with Natasha and Liz being the two ever-presents since 2013.
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The band's catchy pop tunes and girl-next-door image gave them a dedicated fanbase.
In more recent years, their hit Whole Again was embraced by a surprising new group of fans after it was adapted by England supporters during Gareth Southgate's tenure as manager.
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