The Who's Pete Townshend may have to quit the band because of hearing problems.

The legendary guitarist has been struck down with another bout of tinnitus - a painful ringing in the ears, which is a symptom of noise-induced hearing loss - and admits he doesn't think the group can continue if his condition fails to improve.

He told Rolling Stone magazine: "If my hearing is going to be a problem, we're not delaying shows. We're finished. I can't really see any way around the issue."

The Who have already been forced to cancel a tour scheduled for this spring as well as performances at the Coachella and New Orleans Jazz Festivals.

Taking tips from his Rock Star friend Neil Young - who also suffers from the condition - Pete, 64, has been in touch with a hearing specialist who has given him an in-ear monitor which may prevent him from sustaining any further damage.

Bandmate Roger Daltrey remains hopeful, saying: "It's a good test of Pete's hearing. We won't know until we try."

Pete will test the in-ear monitor when the group play their only scheduled show of the year on March 30, for charity Teenage Cancer Trust. The show will include a rendition of the band's classic album 'Quadrophenia'.