Milton Jones has revealed he has been diagnosed with prostate cancer and will soon undergo surgery, forcing him to cancel several dates from his current UK tour.
The comedian, 60, announced the news in a statement on Monday, telling fans that although his cancer is “treatable,” he needs time to focus on recovery before returning to the stage.
“I’m so sorry about this, but I need to announce the cancellation of several dates from my ongoing Ha!Milton live tour,” he wrote on Instagram.
“The affected shows are in Leeds, Coventry, Basingstoke, Sterts, Launceston, Durham, Hexham, Ilkley, Wakefield, Lichfield, Tunbridge Wells, Portsmouth, and Lyme Regis which were all due to take place this summer.”
Jones confirmed that he will undergo surgery soon and needs time to fully recover.
“This difficult decision comes following a recent diagnosis of treatable prostate cancer,” he continued. “I’ll be undergoing surgery soon and will need time afterwards to fully recover.
Summer dates in Colchester, Bridlington, Stroud, and London will also be rescheduled for the autumn. However, all shows planned for the autumn leg of his tour remain unchanged.
“All dates currently scheduled for the Autumn leg of the tour remain unaffected,” he added. “Ticket holders for the cancelled shows will be contacted directly by the venue box office.
Before continuing: “Thanks for your support and respecting my privacy during this time. This decision has not been taken lightly. Trust me.
“Abnormal service will resume as soon as possible and I'm looking forward to being back out on the road again soon - though probably not on a bike! Milton x”.
Fans quickly sent messages of support, including Olympian Sir Chris Hoy, 49, who is battling terminal prostate cancer.
“Really sorry to hear it mate, best of luck,” Hoy wrote.
Sir Chris announced last year that he had been diagnosed with prostate cancer after a scan for a shoulder injury revealed a tumour.
Despite chemotherapy, doctors told him the disease had spread to his bones, giving him just two to four years to live.
Other fans of Jones commented under the post: “Health before humour Milton wishing you a speedy recovery sir”.
“Best of luck Milton. Get yourself well and you’ll be back on the road soon enough,” another penned.
A fan added: “ Bugger. All the best Milton for a successful and speedy recovery.”
Jones’ health news comes after fellow British comedian Ross Noble was also forced to postpone part of his Australian tour amid health woes.
If you have been affected by this story, advice and support can be found by contacting Prostate Cancer UK's specialist nurses on 0800 074 8383 or visiting prostatecanceruk.org
