DURAN DURAN singer Simon Le Bon's is on the verge of splitting with his wife, model Yasmin.

The couple, who celebrate their 18th wedding anniversary this weekend (20/21DEC03), have reportedly clashed over Simon's commitments with the 80s pop sensations - who he reformed earlier this year (03).

A source close to the family says, "They've always had their ups and downs, but this is serious and Simon has told close friends they're splitting up.

"When the band got back together it put a huge strain on the marriage because he was away for months."

Duran Duran, who have sold 70 million singles and albums, flew off for a promotional tour in the America and from there went to Australia as a support act on the Robbie Williams tour. Whilst on tour, the Le Bons hardly spoke on the phone.

The source adds, "Simon and Yasmin are desperate to put their problems behind them over Christmas because they don't want to spoil things for their children.

"But Simon knows he'll have to face up to it all soon."

21/12/2003 14:51