Duncan Campbell, the lead singer of the reggae group UB40, has revealed he is retiring from music, after having a seizure at his home earlier this month.

The frontman, who took over the role from brother Ali in 2008, suffered from a stroke last August, and has spent the last 10 months recovering in an effort to prepare for the group‘s upcoming tour.

UB40 say they will announce a new lead singer shortly.

Campbell, 63, said: “Unfortunately, due to continued ill health, I have reluctantly decided to retire from the band so as to focus on my recovery.

“I am very grateful, and would like to express my sincere thanks to the fans for all their support during this time and indeed throughout my time with UB40.

“The band have my full support going forward and, of course, my very best wishes for the future with their new singer.”

Campbell’s older brother and bandmate Robin said on behalf of UB40: “We’ve been rehearsing with every intention of Duncan’s return to performing, but sadly, after suffering further illness, he has made the decision to retire from music in order to concentrate fully on his recovery.

“While we are deeply saddened, we completely understand and fully support his decision. As far as touring goes, we are ready to hit the road for our upcoming summer shows and will be announcing our new frontman imminently.”

Campbell replaced his brother Ali in the band’s line up in 2008, following disagreements over management.

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UB40, which is famous for hits such as Red Red Wine and Falling In Love With You, formed in Birmingham in 1978, and was a reference to the form that people used to claim unemployment benefits at the time.

In the years since his departure, Ali has been critical of his brother’s involvement in the group, saying it makes his “skin crawl” to see him perform.

He later formed a breakaway group with former bandmates Astro and Mickey and Mickey Virtue.