JERMAINE JACKSON - JACKSON FIVE TO REUNITE

JACKSON FIVE TO REUNITE

The Jackson Five are to reform for a tour, according to Jermaine Jackson, with his brother Michael set to take part in the reunion.

Jermaine told BBC 6 Music that the band - featuring Tito, Marlon, Jackie, Jermaine, Michael and Randy - has discussed concert plans and that a series of shows could take place "sometime in 2008".

And the singer and guitarist confirmed that Michael "will be involved" in the tour.

"He has to be," he said. "He is a Jackson. He was at the meetings. Michael will be involved."

The group - who found fame in the 1970s with hits such as I Want You Back, Rockin' Robin and ABC - last toured as the Jacksons (with six members) in 1984 in support of the Victory album.

Thriller star Michael told fans on the last night of the tour that he was leaving the band and though they released one further album - 2300 Jackson Street in 1989 - they formally disbanded in 1990.

Rumours of a reunion have persisted however, with Celebrity Big Brother contestant Jermaine confirming that Michael's 2005 trial for child abuse had caused a delay.

"There's been so much going on, getting over all the hurdles that we all were faced with during Michael's trial," he said.

"But we are stronger than ever. I'm gonna say thank you, thank you, thank you so much to all the fans and the supporters of my family all over Europe, all over the UK especially, who came out to show their love and their support."

He added: "We feel we have to do it one more time. We owe that to the fans and to the public."