Phil and Orianne Collins married in 1999

The former Genesis drummer and his Swiss wife Orianne confirmed they had been living apart since the beginning of the year.

The pair, who have two children together, married in 1999.

A statement released by them said they had been "growing apart for some time now and this has put too much pressure on their relationship".

Movie soundtracks

The statement added: "They are both very sad that it should come to this but have as their priority the welfare and happiness of their children and are determined to remain friends and be loving parents to them."

Collins, 55, who has three other children, found success with Genesis as both drummer and lead singer before they split in 1998, also enjoying a solo career alongside the band.

In recent years he has concentrated on writing music for animated films such as Tarzan, which won him an Oscar in 2000, and Brother Bear.