The band apologised to fans but promised full refunds on ticket for their five-date December tour.

The tour was due to start in Glasgow and included a date at the Cardiff International Arena. It was expected to be a sell-out.

A statement for the band said: "After much soul searching and thought we have unfortunately decided to cancel our forthcoming UK tour. We do not want to use the usual excuses.

'Whirlwind success'

"The simple truth is that after 22 months of whirlwind success we need a break and as a band have not been able to put together a new show we would be proud of.

"By charging ahead with the tour we feel we would not be doing justice to ourselves or to our magnificent fans, who have supported us through thick and thin.

"We know many people will be disappointed - for this we apologise, but feel in our hearts that this is the best course of action for all of us.

"We will be back better and stronger next year."

Victims of their popularity

Catatonia have become victims of their own success with non-stop touring and big-selling albums.

Cerys worked with Space on the hit single The Ballad of Tom Jones and recently dueted with the Welsh hero on his album Reload.

Catatonia's announcement came after speculation that Matthews was looking tired at the Net Aid global charity concert last weekend.

A spokeswoman for Catatonia said Matthews really enjoyed playing Net Aid. She said: "The band have never played to an audience of that size and they were really excited.

"But they haven't really had a break between making albums.