Alex James has admitted that he finds farming harder than playing bass in Blur.

James began a new career as a cheese farmer when Blur went on hiatus last decade.

In an interview with XFM, the bassist admitted that, although he loved his new job, he found it more punishing than he ever expected.

"Bass player is probably the easiest job in the world," he said.

"Now I've got the hardest one now, a farmer. You have to get up early. I thought I was sort of retiring for a quiet life, but I'm busier than ever. I love it though."

James, who took a brief break from farming last summer to return to Blur, described their recent reformation as “wonderful”.

And he said that the re-kindling of friendships between band members meant that there would “always be Blur”, even if the group weren't playing together.

James is currently creating a new cheese for the Prince of Wales, which he has described as “the poshest cheese in the world”.

(by Jason Gregory)