Slipknot announces it's parting ways with Craig Jones after 27 years

Slipknot has shocked fans around the world after announcing they were parting ways with Craig Jones.

Jones has been an integral member with the band for nearly three decades.

The heavy metal group was all set to perform in Austria tonight (June 7) at the Nova Rock Festival.

They posted on social media, saying: "To our fans, Slipknot is announcing that we have parted ways with Craig Jones.

"We wish Jones all the best for the future."

Their Instagram page has now been mysteriously taken down in the wake of the big news.

Fans were understandably taken aback by the news that the long-time sampler and keyboardist wouldn't be in the lineup anymore.

One said: "So now the band is down to four of the original numbers lineup. I think y'all should retire the band if you go under 50 per cent. Then it leaves room for new projects all around."

Another added: "HE CAN NOT LEAVE."

A third wrote: "Damn, this made me push my fingers into my eyes."

Jones is recognisable by his spiky face mask, which he wears during live performances.

Also known by fans as 133, he joined Slipknot after the group had finished recording their demo album Mate. Feed. Kill. Repeat in 1996.

He was designated at 'number five' in the nine-member metal group.

Jones hasn't commented on the shocking update and Slipknot hasn't revealed who will replace him.

The band is set to perform at the Rock For People concert in the Czech Republic.

It comes as another Slipknot member announces he's taking a leave of absence from the band.

He wrote on the band's Twitter page: "Hello to all of our fans, it’s the clown.

"I would like to take a moment to tell everyone that I’m back home supporting my wife through some health issues, and I’ll be back on the road as soon as I can.

"We’ve been through this before and as always, we appreciate the love and support. See all of you very soon."