Sir Elton John's management have confirmed that the star is recovering well following his release from hospital, having contracted influenza and an e-coli bacterial infection. Unfortunately this led to the postponement of the four UK shows on his Red Piano tour last month.

Sadly, due to venue availability in all four cities and the scale of the Red Piano show, these shows cannot be rescheduled and have now been cancelled.

Elton has been overwhelmed by the tremendous loyalty and messages of support he has received from his fans in the UK and is terribly disappointed not to have been able to perform the shows,

All ticket holders should apply to their point of ticket purchase for their refund.

The shows affected were:

SHEFFIELD ARENA – 23rd October 2009

NEWCASTLE METRO RADIO ARENA – 24th October 2009

LONDON WEMBLEY ARENA– 27th October 2009

LIVERPOOL ECHO ARENA – 28th October 2009

Elton's only UK performance in 2010 will be a concert in aid of Watford Football Club on Saturday 29th May, 2010. Ticket can be purchased by calling the box office on 0844 856 1881 or online at watfordfc.com.