Sir Elton John has pulled a number of upcoming shows after falling ill.

The veteran musician has been diagnosed with appendicitis whilst on tour and he is set to receive surgery.

As a result, the singer has postponed a number of scheduled shows including a date at London's Hyde Park on Friday (July 12), which has now been made free entry and will see supports Elvis Costello, Gabrielle Aplin and Nick Lowe still perform.

John is currently receiving antibiotics and he will undergo an operation in the UK in the "coming weeks".

His upcoming autumn dates - including a headline slot at Bestival - are still scheduled to go ahead, but they could be affected depending on his recovery. A spokesman said:

"Elton is incredibly disappointed to postpone these tour dates. To know that he made such super-human efforts and continued to perform to thousands through his illness only confirms his dedication to his European fans. He is eager to be back on top form and return to play the remaining shows starting in early September 2013."

John meanwhile is due to release his new album 'The Diving Board' in September.