Take That steadfast in Britney 'Circus' row

Take That have refused to change the name of their forthcoming album, despite it carrying the same title and release date as Britney Spears's new LP.

The group will debut The Circus on December 1, with Spears's new record Circus out the same week.

However, Take That's manager told the Daily Record that the boyband are sticking with their current title: "The boys have worked on this for months, like Britney, and we certainly won't be changing the title.

"When you work that far in advance, it's impossible to know what people will call albums. Erasure had an album Circus. The name is not copyrighted.

"I doubt there will be confusion. Fans will either ask for the new record by Take That or Britney Spears."

An insider added: "Britney is not likely to change the title. She announced it two weeks ago. There won't be confusion - Take That are great at what they do and everyone is excited about Britney's comeback."