Gregor Robertson, mayor of Vancouver, and wife to separate

The mayor of Vancouver has released a statement confirming rumours that he and his wife are separating.

Gregor Robertson and his wife, Amy Robertson, issued a joint statement at noon on Saturday in an email sent through the mayor's office.

“As people close to our family are aware, we recently agreed to separate," the Robertsons said.

"This is a personal and private matter for our family, and contrary to false rumours being spread online, it is a mutual decision that we made amicably and together.

"We appreciate understanding and privacy, especially for our kids.”