Ed Sheeran is taking a hiatus to 'get back to normality'

Ed Sheeran is set to follow in the footsteps of One Direction and take a hiatus.

The 24-year-old singer said it is time for him to take a break from his phone and social media and will be signing off shortly before Christmas.

Speaking to The Sun he said: "I'll put a post out saying, 'I'm with friends and family - if you love me you'll allow me to disappear for a few months and I'll speak to you in a bit'. I think a break for me is coming off my phone, social media and emails.

"I am constantly on my phone, texting, replying to emails, on Twitter, on Snapchat, on Facebook."

He continued: “I just want to get off it and live and drive to places and listen to music and have normal conversations with people and get back to normality. I've got a packed schedule, then, when December 12 comes, it’s done."

The Thinking Out Loud singer – who this week received an honorary doctorate from University Campus Suffolk – performed live in London’s Leicester Square for the premiere of his concert film Jumpers for Goalposts on Thursday night.

He was joined by Justin Bieber who went casual in a hoodie and ripped jeans and performed a little dance for photographers.

Speaking about the 21-year-old singer, Sheeran said: "The British public kind of fell out of love with Bieber but he's redeemed himself.

"The one thing Bieber has done is he's always released good music."

Olly Murs, Maisie Williams, Tom Holland and Talia Storm were also in attendance to show their support.

Jumpers for Goalposts features footage from his three night Wembley Stadium residency which saw him perform a surprise duet with Sir Elton John.

Fans will also see a personal glimpse into life backstage and on the road, and reflections from Sheeran and those closest to him on his journey to world wide stardom.