Sam Fender statement in full as urgent doctor's warning cancels Edinburgh and Newcastle concerts

Sam Fender told fans he was 'heartbroken' that he had to cancel concerts due to a decline in his physical health but what have doctors told him?

Sam Fender told fans that doctors have advised him to take time off or risk permanently damaging himself.

The BRIT Award winning musician has been open about his health struggles in recent years, as well as having to isolate during the coronavirus pandemic. But he's also opened up about the impact touring has had on him over the years which resulted in him taking time off from the music business in order to focus on his mental health.

Now, the 30-year-old has taken to social media to inform fans that while on his People Watching Tour, promoting his upcoming third album of the same title, he has risked permanently damaging his vocal cords. On Tuesday, he said he had been for an ear, nose and throat camera and had haemorrhaged his right vocal cord, causing him to postpone two concerts.

But what has Sam actually said? In a statement, he told fans: "Glasgow and Newcastle, as most of you know I've had the flu for a few days now. Regardless of how compromised my voice was I did everything I could to get it in working order last night to put on the best show possible. Today I've had an ENT scope/camera down my throat and sadly I've haemorrhaged my right vocal cord, I'm absolutely heartbroken.

"This has been the best tour so far and all I want to do is get up and sing again for you all tonight. I've had two separate ENT doctors say if I perform tonight I'm risking lasting damage to my voice and I have been advised to be on vocal rest and not use my voice for a prolonged length of time until it heals. I've done everything by the book this tour living like a monk, it's so unlucky.

"I'm so, so sorry to all of you who are on your way tonight. We're trying to figure out a way to reschedule for you all, more news soon." As part of his tour, Sam had been performing at venues including Manchester's Co-op Live, London's O2 Arena and Glasgow's OVO Hydro.

He was due to play his second show at the Hydro on Tuesday, before heading home to Newcastle, performing a sold-out show at the Utilita Arena on Friday. Fans have since responded to Sam's announcement, with one writing: "Gutted as we've just driven from Whitley Bay to Glasgow. But don’t worry Bonny lad, rest and repair yourself and we’ll do it all again next time."

A second went on to pen: "Your health is the most important thing. You gave it your all last night and it's time to focus on getting better to make sure the rest of the tour can go ahead strongly." "What a shame for him, the band and the fans still to see them. I consider myself extremely lucky to have seen him last night. @samfendermusic gave it his all," said a third.

"Mate it was clear you were struggling from the off, you could tell you were choked up, but you gave everything and to be honest you sounded incredible, and it was a terrific show. It's hardly surprising you've had to cancel tonight. All the best lad," wrote another. Meanwhile, another added: "Very much appreciate you pushing through your illness for the last few shows, you were fantastic last night! Sorry to hear it's caused some damage though, really hope you feel better soon!"

The news comes weeks after Sam announced a string of huge concerts at Newcastle's St James' Park and London Stadium in the summer. Sam will play three shows at Newcastle United's stadium on June 12, 14 and 15, playing to an eye watering 100,000 fans.

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