Little Mix are set to perform as a trio at their upcoming shows after Perrie Edwards fell ill.

The girl group are scheduled to play a number of shows in December, including a massive concert for Capital FM's Jingle Bell Ball at London's O2 Arena on Saturday (December 8).

However, singer Edwards, who was recently spotted in New York with One Direction boyfriend Zayn Malik, is needing surgery on a tonsil problem, meaning that the group will have to perform as a three-piece until the singer has recovered. A post on their official website reads:

"From Mixers HQ we bring you the sad news that Perrie is unfortunately suffering from a recurring tonsil problem. Her doctor has advised her to have immediate surgery, so she won't be able to perform with the girls at the upcoming December gigs. Perrie is very disappointed to miss out, however, Leigh-Anne, Jade and Jesy do not want to let down the dedicated Mixers who have got tickets to see them, so have decided all shows will still go ahead until she is well enough to return."

A Little Mix spokesperson meanwhile told The Sun: "Perrie is very disappointed to miss out. However, Leigh-Anne, Jade and Jesy do not want to let down the fans coming to see them so will perform at the upcoming shows, including Capital FM's Jingle Bell Ball at the O2 this Saturday, without her until she is well enough to return."