Flying without wings

WESTLIFE, one of the most successful chart acts ever, yesterday pledged that the music will not die despite Bryan McFadden's departure.

The new foursome is to continue with a planned world tour in the absence of the 24-year-old, who wants to spend more time with his young family.

The band refused to compare McFadden's parting to that of Robbie Williams leaving Take That or Geri Halliwell breaking from the Spice Girls.