New Kids On The Block officially launched their comeback in New York yesterday.

The reformed boys band appeared in front of a host of fans at the Today show Plaza, who turned out to welcome NKOTB back despite getting a soaking from the rain.

Lead singer Jordan Knight told them, “This is better than Christmas. I'm shocked, especially in the rain - thank you all. This is really awesome just doing this whole thing."

Joey McIntyre adds, “You don't take it for granted but these are the kind of fans we have - that stay out in the cold and the rain like it's a beautiful sunny day.

"So it's a nice reminder that what we had, and what we still have is so special."

Donnie Wahlberg revealed details of what the group’s reunion will entail, whilst explaining, whilst keeping a straight face, that they’ve reunited for the “music”.

“We weren't going to announce this yet, but a story leaked a few months ago, and our website got over a million hits,” he said, adding, “It was really music that brought us back.”

"We've got a new album coming out full of new material, we're really excited for everyone to hear it. We've been working really hard on it.

"We hope to tour in the fall and we're already setting up limited dates."