Former Genesis star Phil Collins has separated from his wife of six years, insisting it is in the best interest of their two young children.

Collins, who quit the progressive rock group in 1996 to concentrate on his solo career, was married two times before settling down with Orianne. His publicist Mara Buxbaum reveals the pair have been living apart since the beginning of the year, and claims news of their separation yesterday didn't come as a shock.

In a statement she says: "They have decided in the interests of their two children that it is better to separate. 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."

The 55-years-old hitmaker has three other children from his previous marriages. He will continue to live in Switzerland to be near his two young children, Nicholas and Mathew, who live with his soon to be ex-wife Orianne.