Western Mail

Tom sorry after bug forces him to call off gigs

- LUCY MAPSTONE and CATHY OWEN newsdesk@walesonlin­e.co.uk

SIR Tom Jones has apologised to fans for cancelling two concerts due to illness. The Treforest-born legend is being treated in hospital for a bacterial infection, and pulled out of a performanc­e at Stansted Park in Chichester yesterday and another show at Chester Racecourse last night.

In a statement posted on Twitter, Sir Tom, 78, said: “I am so sorry for cancelling last night’s show in Chichester, it’s the worse feeling having to let down everyone who was coming as well as everyone who is involved in the event.

“I know many of you travel considerab­le distances and make plans with friends and family that take a lot of effort, and it is so disappoint­ing when things don’t go right.

“Although I can’t perform again tonight at Chester Racecourse, the good news is that we can get another date in Chester on August 12, so hopefully I will see you there.

“Until then, a sincere thank you for your support and understand­ing.”

A previous statement shared on his social media page said that the singer “has a bacterial infection for which he is being treated in hospital”.

“The condition is being well managed and we are hoping for a speedy recovery.

“He is extremely sorry and disappoint­ed not to be able to perform tonight, and sincerely apologises for inconvenie­nces caused to the audience and all those who are involved in the event.”

Fans were told their tickets will “remain valid for the reschedule­d dates”, and that if people are unable to attend, they will be able to get a refund at the point of purchase.

Last September, the veteran singer also had to cancel his imminent US tour due to “ill health” and later revealed that he had undergone hip replacemen­t surgery.

Sir Tom has in recent years found new fame with younger audiences as a judge on ITV’s The Voice alongside the likes of will.i.am and Olly Murs.

Fans were quick to send the star their best wishes. One said: “Your health comes first Sir Tom. We need you back on stage. Speedy recovery.”

Another said: “Get well soon and see you on the 12th Sir Tom.”

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