Sir Rod Stewart has shared an emotional statement on his retirement, aged 80, after a spectacular career spanning several decades. Taking to Instagram, the music legend declared: “I shall never retire!”

He defiantly continued: "I was put on this earth to be a singer and will keep doing so for as long as the good lord lets me." Fans were delighted with the update from the star, who is married to Penny Lancaster. Posting in the comments of the social media update, one fan said: "That’s the best news Rod! Woohoo!!! Loving your music." Another echoed: "Sir Roderick, may God bless you with good health and many more years!!! I support your statement and hope you see many more moments...," and one more added: "That’s why we love you so much Sir Rod."

Previously speaking about his mortality, Sir Rod said: “I’m aware my days are numbered but I’ve got no fear. We have all got to pass on at some point, so we are all in the same basket. I am going to be enjoying myself for these last few years as much as I can."

The news follows the announcement of Stewart’s Ultimate Hits album, where he teased: “I'm thrilled to let you know that The Ultimate Hits collection is now available for pre-order and it's coming your way June 27th! It's packed with the classics you know and love. Pre-order now and be ready to sing along when it drops."

The star is also set to play the coveted Sunday Legends slot at Glastonbury Festival this summer. The Maggie May hitmaker "immediately" accepted Emily and Michael Eavis' offer to play the teatime slot, which is usually reserved for music royalty at the world-famous festival.

He will become the first artist to headline Glastonbury and be given legends billing after he previously topped the bill at the festival in 2002 alongside Coldplay and Stereophonics.

Appearing at talkSPORT Breakfast, he was quizzed how quickly he agreed to the gig, and he responded, “Immediately. It's a great honour." He then added: "It's going to cost me a fortune to do it - $300,0000.”

The rocker explained that he would have to foot the bill for bringing his live band over from America, but he insisted it was worth every penny, and he would be willing to spend a million dollars (£792,500) for the privilege.