There's been a shake up to one of Venue Cymru's most anticipated upcoming acts.

Ben Thapa, an original member of X Factor opera stars G4 has decided to part ways with the band ahead of their upcoming Llandudno show next month.

The low tenor, who has been with the vocal troupe since they shot to fame on the ITV show in 2004 has decided to follow his own destiny due to an increasingly busy solo opera career.

Thapa said: “For 15 years now, G4 has been a part of my life, identity and inner fibre. From the days of busking barbershop numbers, alongside operatic arias on the streets of London, there have been some unbelievable highs along the way, and G4 has had a wonderful career so far.

"I’d like to thank all of you for showing support, both to G4 and to me individually, over the years. It is important to me that G4 continues to exist and thrive. With that in mind, I firmly believe Lewis Raines is a great appointment as my replacement.”

After a nationwide search, G4 members Nick Ashby, Mike Christie, Jonathan Ansell will add new member Lewis Raines as Ben’s replacement and are eager to return to the Venue Cymru stage, and delighting fans with their updated sound.

Raines said: “I firstly would like to wish Ben the very best for the future and for all his upcoming concerts and performances with WNO. He is a hard act to follow but I will endeavour to uphold the standard and legacy he has left to G4.

"I have always been a huge admirer of G4 since they first appeared in our living rooms, on our TV screens. Now that I can say that I'm the new member of G4, it fills me with great excitement, and I am thrilled to start working with Jonathan, Mike and Nick.”

To witness the next phase in G4's career, and enjoy their classic takes on Bohemian Rhapsody, My Way, Nessun Dorma and Creep head to Venue Cymru on Sunday September 9 7.30pm.

Tickets are £27.50 and on sale now from venuecymru.co.uk or by calling the box office on 01492 872000.