'My health comes before anything,' says comic, 72

Jasper Carrott has pulled a run of tour dates as he undergoes a heart bypass operation.

The 72-year-old comedian is going into hospital in August for the surgery and will need three months to recover.

But he told fans the Stand Up And Rock dates – which he performs with musicians including ELO drummer Bev Bevan and Geoff Turton from the Rockin’ Berries - would be rescheduled.

Writing on Facebook, the Birmingham-born comic said: ‘Sadly, I have been told very recently that I need a heart bypass operation.

‘While it’s not desperate, it is obviously something which I need to get done as soon as possible.

‘All being well, the operation will take place in August and there will then follow a three month recovery period after which I anticipate being able to return to work as normal.

‘Unfortunately this effects a number of shows which unavoidably must be postponed until at least early spring next year.

‘My sincere apologies to all the theatre-goers who have bought tickets to my shows but I know you will understand that my health comes before anything and I will do my level best to get back in action as soon as possible.

‘Thank you for your understanding and again my apologies for the disruption and inconvenience to everyone concerned.’

Carrott’s cancelled dates include shows at the Lichfield Garrick, which have been rescheduled until April next year.

Published: 16 Jul 2017