Stone Roses bassist Mani is to become a father to twins, it has been revealed.
The Stone Roses bassist – whose real name is Gary Mountfield – and wife Imelda are thrilled by the news, which they kept secret until she had passed her first trimester.
A source close to the couple – who have been married for 12 years – said: “They are absolutely overjoyed.”
This year has been eventful for the 49-year-old musician, who also previously played with Primal Scream.
Last October, The Stone Roses confirmed they were reuniting – 16 years after they split – to perform a string of live shows across Europe, including two triumphant homecoming shows in Manchester, North West England.
And Mani could be juggling new fatherhood with recording commitment as the band are expected to begin work on new music early next year.
A source said recently: “John Squire and Ian Brown have been sending each other ideas for over a year now. During rehearsals they have tried some new songs and really felt that the old magic was still there with the songwriting.
“They have decided they will give it another spin with new music next year.”