Ill Meat Loaf scraps Europe tour

Meat Loaf's Bat Out of Hell III album was released in 2006

Rock singer Meat Loaf has cancelled his European tour after being diagnosed with a cyst on his vocal cords.

The 60-year-old scrapped two gigs this week on doctor's orders, and was due to perform at Wembley Arena later.

Meat Loaf said: "It really breaks my heart not to be able to perform these shows." He added: "I will be back."

Speculation has surrounded the tour since Meat Loaf cut short a gig in Newcastle last week, calling it "the last show I may ever do in my life".

He added: "I can no longer continue. I take my coat off and thank you for 30 years."

CANCELLED CONCERTS 6 November - London 8 November - Nottingham 11 November - Cardiff 13 November - Horsens, Denmark 15 November - Bergen, Norway 17 November - Stockholm 20 November - Rotterdam 22 November - Belfast 24 November - Killarney 27 November - Manchester 29 November - Birmingham

Meat Loaf's promoters played down the 60-year-old's remarks, saying he was suffering from "exhaustion and stress".

His management later issued a statement to say he was suffering from laryngitis and had been ordered to rest by doctors.

After cancelling gigs in Manchester and Birmingham, it was announced on Tuesday that Meat Loaf - born Marvin Lee Aday - had been diagnosed with an "inter-vocal cord cyst".

While most cysts of this type require surgery, voice therapy is usually conducted first to determine if it is necessary.

Doctors will determine in about four to six weeks what further course of action may be required.

In a statement, Meat Loaf said: "I was really looking forward to capping off a great year and celebrating the start of the holidays with the fans.

"But I have to do what the doctors tell me so I can look forward to healing and coming back strong in 2008.

"Let me dispel any rumours before they start - I will be back."