Within Temptation guitarist Robert Westerholt is to quit touring in order to focus on bringing up the children he has with vocalist Sharon den Adel.According to a statement released by the band, Robert will still work with the band in a recording capacity and perform the occasional show, but guitarist Stefan Helleblad is to fill his role, beginning with a show in Heerhugowaard, Holland on September 21."As you know in recent years we were blessed with the birth of three children," begins a statement from Sharon and Robert. "Since then not only our kids but also Within Temptation has been growing fast and we are touring in more countries than ever before. "To be able to fulfill the needs of our children but just as much the needs of the band for now and also in the future, we decided Robert will step down from touring live, (except for the occasional show). With this change we can give stability to our children and from the home studio Robert will have more time writing new music and developing new creative ideas for the live show, the comic and future movies. "What makes the decision easier is the fact that Stefan Helleblad is willing to take Robert's place in the band on stage. Stefan has been working with the band behind the scenes for some years. As a sound engineer he was involved in the production of our latest three records. Next to being a great sound engineer, mixing engineer and producer he is also a very gifted guitar player. On our latest album 'The Unforgiving' you can already hear him play some special guitar parts. His first show will be on the 21st in Heerhugowaard. "So this is not a goodbye but a new step, or actually two steps in a very exciting new and inspiring time for our band. "We hope you keep joining and enjoying this adventure together with us and our paths will keep crossing each other."