Duran DuranDuran Duran have been forced to cancel the opening dates of their UK tour after singer Simon Le Bon has been diagnosed with laryngitis.

Fans who were planning to attend the cancelled Newcastle and Glasgow dates have been asked to hold on to their tickets because the events will be rescheduled, with the details being announced within the next few days.

A spokesman told the BBC that the group regretted the decision but were left with no other option while their singer recovered from his throat infection.

The influential band, who saw their heyday in the 1980s, reformed in 2000 to a rapturous reception from fans old and new. Over the following decade they saw a resurgence in recognition, including a Lifetime Achievement award from Q magazine and the Outstanding Contribution BRIT award.