SIR Tom Jones's post-racing concert at York Racecourse on Friday eveningwill go ahead after the 78-year-old Welsh singer's recovery from illness.

A bacterial infection had led to Sir Tom being hospitalised, prompting the cancellation of five performances so far, the latest being at a Finnish rock festival last night.

However, a new statement on Sir Tom’s Twitter account today says: “We are pleased to report, Sir Tom Jones' tour will recommence at York Racecourse on Friday 27th July.

"Sir Tom is feeling much better and under doctors' orders is ready to resume performing."

The Twitter message continues: "Sir Tom would like to extend his heartfelt gratitude to everyone for their understanding and to those who have sent their supportive and uplifting messages over the past week.

"He is looking forward to continuing his summer tour, being back on stage and performing for his audience."

The Knavesmire course management had received assurances earlier in the week that Friday's show would be on. Head of marketing James Brennan said at the time: "We were updated on Monday night by his people. They were very clear in their message to us. We’re expecting to go ahead on Friday as scheduled."

It's not unusual for York Racecourse to be on tenterhooks over Sir Tom. This will-he, won't-he-perform scenario has echoes of his previous concert at York Racecourse in July 2015 when he overcame a respiratory infection just in time to play a Friday set to 30,000 racegoers after cancelling shows at Saint Tropez on the Tuesday and in Germany on the Thursday.

York Press:

Boyzone: 25th anniversary

Sir Tom's concert on Friday will be the first of two Music Showcase Weekend concerts this weekend, the second featuring Irish "boy band" Boyzone after Saturday's seven-race card as part of their 25th anniversary celebrations.

They will be releasing their sixth and final album, Thank You & Goodnight, on November 16 with a final tour to follow next year. Lead single Because, co-written by Ed Sheeran, Amy Wadge, John Shanks and Boyzone's Ronan Keating, will be out on September 7, Sheeran being a long-term friend of Keating, even performing at his wedding in 2015.

The 12-track album also features I Can Dream, a moving tribute to late Boyzone member Stephen Gately, and another special guest songwriter in the shape of Take That's Gary Barlow on Love.

The Dublin group must love the North Yorkshire great outdoors: they played Scarborough Open Air Theatre two years running, in July 2014 and June 2015, and earlier performed at Castle Howard in July 2008

Amid the ongoing heatwave, with temperatures hotter than a Tom Jones kiss predicted for both days - although thunderstorms are now forecast for Friday - the York Racecourse dress code is being relaxed. “We’ve already come over all Phil Collins and said there’s no jacket required," said Mr Brennan.

Tickets are still available in all areas for both days and entry to the newly-refurbished clocktower enclosure will be available on the day of each performance.

York Racecourse opens from 4pm on Friday and 11.15am on Saturday, with the first races at 6pm and 2.05pm respectively. Please note, admission is not available on a "concert only" basis; the gates will be closed at the time of the last race each day.

Bookings can be made at yorkracecourseco.uk or on 01904 620911.