Westlife’s Mark Feehily pulls out of tour to undergo emergency surgery

'Surgery needs to happened sooner rather than later'

The group has a run of shows booked throughout the summer with stops in Denmark, Sweden, Mexico, Cardiff.

While Shane Filan, Kian Egan and Nicky Byrne will go ahead with the gigs, Mark will continue his recovery.

In a statement, he wrote: "There is nothing to worry about I promise.

"But under doctor’s orders this surgery needs to happen sooner rather than later and will also require some recovery time throughout the summer."

Mark continued: "I want you to know that I was very excited to see you all and perform but this is something that can’t be avoided and I know that you will all still have the time of your lives at what will be some amazing shows!

"I’ll be there with you all in spirit and very much look forward to getting back on stage with the lads very soon!”

Mark announced he was returning to the tour in January after battling pneumonia.

This is a breaking news story. More to follow.