The couple met in 1995 when Stefani's band opened for Bush and married in 2002. It was reported at the weekend that 'irreconcilable differences' meant that Stefani was seeking to sever the marriage.

The joint statement said that "While the two of us have come to the mutual decision that we will no longer be partners in marriage, we remain partners in parenthood and are committed to jointly raising our three sons in a happy and healthy environment"