Kings of Leon will return “better than ever”.

Betty Ann Murphy – mother of band members Caleb, Jared and Nathan Followill and aunt of guitarist Mathew Followill – insists the group will not splitting up, despite recently pulling out of 29 scheduled US tour dates.

She said: “They’ll be back better than ever. It’s not the end of the band.”

The ‘Sex is on Fire’ rockers cancelled their North American tour last month citing exhaustion and voice problems on the part of lead singer Caleb, but sources have now claimed it is because he has issues with alcohol and has been urged to go to rehab.

However, Betty insists this isn’t true, saying: “Sometimes they all drink more than they should – they’re young men and go on a binge. None of them need rehab.”

The group recently reassured fans they are not breaking up after cancelling the tour, following Caleb walking off stage during a show in Dallas, Texas, saying he couldn’t stand the heat and felt ill.

Drummer Nathan tweeted: “Bummed about the tour not happening. So sorry 4 all the fans. We just need some rest. Thanks 4 understanding. WE ARE NOT BREAKING UP (sic)!”

The band are set to restart their touring schedule in Canada on September 28.