Queen’s Brian May cancels shows due to ‘persistent illness’

Brian May has been forced to cancel a string of tour dates after suffering from a ‘persistent illness’.

Copyright: [Wenn]

The Queen guitarist had booked to play eleven concerts with Kerry Ellis in the run up to Christmas, however, has had to postpone them indefinitely.

Brian says he had to make the decision after falling unwell with “a persistent illness which is destroying my energy and my will”.

In a statement on his website, he wrote: “I’m gutted to have to pull out - I hate letting our loyal fans down. But the advice I have had is that I must take time off to heal, rather than go out on tour again and risk falling down on the job, which would be much worse.”

Copyright: [Wenn]

This is not the first time the musician has suffered poor health after previously battling prostate cancer before being given the all clear in 2014.

Kerry added to his statement, saying: “Brian is a dear friend of mine, and obviously his health must come first.

Copyright: [Wenn]

“I was so looking forward to touring the UK again with Brian. I know so many of you had bought tickets for an early Christmas treat, and I am truly sorry that we are letting so many of you down. But we will be back next year for sure, with new music for you all to hear.”

Anyone who bought tickets for the shows will be given a full refund.

The pair’s new studio album, titled Anthems II, is scheduled for release in March.