The Who's Future In Doubt

The Who's Pete Townshend may have to quit the band because of hearing problems.

The legendary guitarist has been struck down with another bout of tinnitus - a painful ringing in the ears, which is a symptom of noise-induced hearing loss - and admits he doesn't think the group can continue if his condition fails to improve.

He told Rolling Stone magazine: "If my hearing is going to be a problem, we're not delaying shows. We're finished. I can't really see any way around the issue."

The Who have already been forced to cancel a tour scheduled for this spring as well as performances at the Coachella and New Orleans Jazz Festivals.

Taking tips from his Rock Star friend Neil Young - who also suffers from the condition - Pete, 64, has been in touch with a hearing specialist who has given him an in-ear monitor which may prevent him from sustaining any further damage.

Bandmate Roger Daltrey remains hopeful, saying: "It's a good test of Pete's hearing. We won't know until we try."

Pete will test the in-ear monitor when the group play their only scheduled show of the year on March 30, for charity Teenage Cancer Trust. The show will include a rendition of the band's classic album 'Quadrophenia'.