"Since Johnny came into the band we have changed as a group," said band member Danny Foster in a statement.

We have been working on so many great new tracks that we would rather wait

Suzanne Shaw, Hear'Say

"He has also come with some fresh new ideas and we need some time before it all comes together."

The band made no comment about reports that slow ticket sales were to blame for the decision.

On Thursday the Sun said that only a small percentage of tickets had been sold in advance - and that some of these were returned after the departure of Marsh.

Shentall: Engaged to former Steps singer Lisa Scott-Lee

The group's Suzanne Shaw said Hear'Say also wanted new material in their shows.

"We have been working on so many great new tracks that we would rather wait to include those in the show to reflect both the old and new Hear'Say," she said.

Fans with tour tickets have been advised to return them to the original place of purchase, where a refund will be given.

Shentall joined the group in February after the departure of Kym Marsh, and was chosen after auditions which attracted thousands of hopefuls.

Marsh said she left to spend time with her children

But there was criticism when it was reported that he knew the group, and had already danced with them.

He is also engaged to former Steps singer Lisa Scott-Lee and is an ex-member of chart group Boom!

Solicitors acting for the group were forced to issue a statement saying the selection process had been fair.