AC/DC founder member Malcolm Young is to step down from the band due to ill health.

Rumours have circulated in the past few days that the band might be forced to call it quits, with Choirboys frontman and friend of the band Mark Gable saying that the guitarist is seriously ill and will not be able to perform any more.

A statement published on AC/DC's Facebook page this afternoon (April 16) confirms that Young (pictured above, bottom left) will take a break from the group after four decades as a member.

"After 40 years of life dedicated to AC/DC, guitarist and founding member Malcolm Young is taking a break from the band due to ill health," it reads. "Malcolm would like to thank the group’s diehard legions of fans worldwide for their never-ending love and support. In light of this news, AC/DC asks that Malcolm and his family’s privacy be respected during this time. The band will continue to make music."

Earlier today, frontman Brian Johnson also denied rumours suggesting the band would split but did confirm that a member of the band was ill and revealed that the band hope to record new music in May.

AC/DC formed in November, 1973. Their last studio album was 2008's Brendan O'Brien-produced 'Black Ice'.