YORK indie stars Shed Seven have cancelled the next three shows of their Instant Pleasures tour due to a throat infection suffered by singer Rick Witter.

The band, celebrating the chart-topping success of their first studio album in 16 years, kicked off their tour - the biggest in their career - at Fibbers in York on Friday and Saturday and also played in Inverness last night (Monday).

However, they have been forced to call off the shows in Aberdeen tonight (Tuesday), Edinburgh tomorrow (Wednesday) and Dublin on Friday. Organisers are looking into rescheduling them.

Their next scheduled concert is at Leicester's O2 Academy on Sunday, with 19 dates following until the tour ends at Manchester Academy on Saturday, December 23.

A statement on the band's official Facebook page said: "It is with massive regret, and for the first time in our 27 year career, that we need to cancel the next three shows of the Instant Pleasures tour... Aberdeen, Edinburgh and Dublin.

"Rick came down with a serious throat infection last week and has battled through the last three shows... but sadly last night in Inverness proved that it was impossible to continue.

"Rick needs a few days in bed so that we can come out full guns blazing for the rest of the dates.

"We will update you ASAP in regards to the rescheduling of these three dates, and of course, if you are unable to make the new dates, or they are unable to rescheduled, then full refunds will be available from the point of purchase.

"We can’t apologise enough. It’s been a very difficult decision so hope you can understand and we thank you for your continued support."

Shed Seven's new album, Instant Pleasures, debuted this week at number eight in the album charts, and at number one in the vinyl charts.