Motorhead apologise to fans after axing the band's European tour for a third time due to frontman Lemmy's ailing health.
The rock legends have been off the road since the Ace of Spades singer underwent heart surgery last summer (13). The 68 year old also suffers from diabetes.
The group postponed a planned trek of the continent twice last year (13), and were slated to return to the stage for a series of dates in February (14), but the band announced on Friday (24Jan14) that Lemmy is still too fragile to perform.
A statement posted on the band's official website reads, "It is with great regret that Motorhead has to announce the cancellation of their European tour, scheduled to start February, 2014.
"Many concerted, diligent and focused efforts were made by founding member, and international icon, Lemmy Kilmister to deal with a range of health issues relating to diabetes. While there has been undoubted progress, Lemmy and the band were advised by doctors that it was still too soon to resume full touring activities, and so for the good of the future, the band and Lemmy reluctantly agreed to cancel."
The group goes on to assure fans that Lemmy is on the road to recovery, adding, "It goes without saying that Lemmy profusely apologises for inconveniences caused, but he does want everyone to know that he is continuing on the road to a full recovery, and that the prognosis long-term is very good."
The tour cancellation comes after Motorhead manager Todd Singerman admitted he was concerned about the star's unhealthy lifestyle, saying, "He's stopped smoking, but he probably sneaks Jack (Daniels) and coke (Coca-Cola) here and there. He'd be lying if he said he'd stopped. He's been trying to substitute it (bourbon) with wine. That was the compromise with the doctors: 'Trade the Jack for the wine'."