PICTURES: The rise and fall of STEPS as they announce comeback

Way back in 1997 Claire Richards, Lisa Scott-Lee, Ian “H” Watkins, Faye Tozer and Lee Latchford-Evans formed the group that became the late 90s pop icons Steps.

They had a whirlwind three years in the spotlight, supporting Britney Spears on tour, headlining festivals, and causing an army of fans to dance the robot thanks to their big hit ‘Tragedy’. But tragedy actually struck for the band when Richards and Watkins announced they were departing the group in 2001.

However, the news that they’ve made another album with tracks penned by Abba’s Bjorn Ulvaeus and Benny Andersson and are jetting off on tour once again has set the internet alight today.

We’ve taken a look back at why Steps hit the headlines over the years. Remember Claire Richard’s extraordinary weight gain and loss, or Ian ‘H’ Watkins being mistaken for a sex offender in the news? Here’s a reminder…