K.K. Downing has left Judas Priest and will not be joining them on their forthcoming tour, it has been announced.

The guitarist, a founding member of Judas Priest, has announced his retirement from the band.

A statement from Judas Priest said: "It is with regret that Judas Priest announce that K.K.Downing has formally retired from the band and will not be joining them on their forthcoming Epitaph tour."

"The band respect his decision and naturally all wish him well. Having thought long and hard about how to proceed Rob, Glenn, Ian and Scott unanimously agreed that they should go ahead with their tour and not let the fans down all around the world."

Richie Faulkner will replace Downing on the band's tour. Judas Priest will play a number of festivals including a headline slot at London's High Voltage on July 23.

(by Holly Frith)