Take That singer Mark Owen has checked himself into rehab days after confessing he has been battling with a drinking problem and cheated on his partner on numerous occasions.

A spokesman for the star said at the weekend: "I can confirm Mark checked into a private clinic on Friday."

The 38-year-old released a statement earlier this week apologising for his actions and admitting he had cheated on his wife Emma before they got married in 2009.

In an interview with the Sun newspaper Owen revealed he had engaged in a number of affairs but praised the strength of his wife.

"I have been living with the guilt. It has always been there - you carry it around with you. It held me back in my relationship with Emma. I wouldn't have done any of this if I had my time again," he said.

"Emma is really strong and I know she will do what is right for her and the kids. I support that and I really appreciate that. She loved me - she still does love me - and I have let her down. That's the truth of it."

Owen, the winner of Celebrity Big Brother in 2002, has enjoyed remarkable success with Take That since they band reunited in 2005.
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