Jackson postpones opening four nights

Michael Jackson has postponed the opening of his 'This Is It' London O2 arena residency by four days.

The tour will now begin on July 13 because the 'Thriller' star needs more time to rehearse, concert promoters AEG confirmed. Three further dates have been moved back to March 2010.

"This show has grown in size and scope, thereby necessitating more lead time for manufacture of the set, programming the content for the massive video elements, and, most importantly, more time for full production and dress rehearsals," Randy Phillips, President of AEG Live said in a statement.

"As much as we agonised over this change in the original schedule, we are sure the fans will understand when they experience the level of entertainment Michael Jackson intends to deliver."

In an email sent to ticket holders for the rescheduled dates, the show organisers apologised for the unexpected changes.

"We wanted to ensure that all of Michael's fans attending the concerts get the same quality in staging and level of entertainment," they explained.

"It is AEG Live's sincere hope that those lucky enough to have purchased tickets will have enough time to change their personal schedules and travel plans if they are coming from outside of London."

Full refunds are being offered to fans who cannot make the rearranged concerts.

750,000 tickets were sold for the 50-date residency, which went on sale in March.