Neville Staple, star of The Specials and Fun Boy Three, has pulled out of all upcoming gigs after being diagnosed with a “serious” heart defect

The singer, 68, revealed his condition in a statement on social media, revealing he had been hospitalised three times in December, with doctors advising him to cancel all work commitments. 

“At the beginning of December 2023, the legendary frontman Dr #NevilleStaple #FromTheSpecials was diagnosed with suffering from a serious heart defect.

“Neville has been treated at 3 different hospitals and specialists have prescribed treatments and medications to try to control his symptoms, and thankfully things do seem to have stabilised.

“However, specialists have decided that Neville needs to take a complete rest from live performing and touring.”

While the Ghost Town hitmaker is “devastated” to have to stop performing, the statement adds: “Neville knows that his fans and followers will understand the decision that has had to be made and he wants them to know that he is in the best possible hands with his medical team, wife and family. 

“He thanks you all for your love and support over the years and hopes to see you soon.”