Jackson confirms 2010 O2 concerts

Michael Jackson's 'This Is It' residency at the O2 arena will continue in 2010, it is has been confirmed.

Presale tickets for 30 shows between July and September sold out yesterday. Responding to the high demand, the 50-year-old popstar has begun adding dates in January and February next year.

He currently has 43 gigs scheduled, and the number is expected to rise to at least 50.

Ticketmaster director Chris Edmonds has described the demand for the singer's shows as "unprecedented".

In a statement on his official website, organisers apologised for ticket problems on the first day of sale.

"We know that many of you have experienced frustrating delays when attempting to purchase tickets on Wednesday and we apologise for these problems," it reads. "Demand for tickets is unprecedented, so please be patient and do keep trying."

Fans who missed out on the presale will be able to try for tickets from Friday at 7am. Tickets for all shows will be available.

Despite the extra dates, passes for the concerts are being auctioned on eBay for as much as £10,000. The highest priced standard tickets from Ticketmaster are £75.