Neville Staple has apologised to fans who are demanding refunds on tickets bought for The Special 2013 which he will not be a part of .
Staple had made his decision not to tour with the band which originated in Coventry. However, the announcement was delayed until after tickets had gone on sale.
When the news did break last week, fans were left feeling short changed and some have demanded refunds.
Neville Staple has now issued a statement which reads: "To all the fans who have sent messages and posted stuff on facebook and on the Specials forum pages, I'm sorry to hear that some of you are upset that you bought tickets, before knowing I had decided to not perform with the Specials for BBC and the forthcoming tour.
"I made my mind up some weeks ago to take a back seat and was under the impression that tickets wouldn't go on sale until after the BBC performance, when my decision would be made public. However, the ticket link went out earlier and this was out of my control.
"I can't jump around like I used to but will be performing now and throughout 2013, with my band as before and hope to see many of you along the way. Please join my facebook page for all ticket updates.
Nev"