Dave Gahan 'undergoes cancer surgery'

Depeche Mode have announced that they will restart their interrupted Sounds Of The Universe tour after frontman Dave Gahan underwent surgery to remove a cancerous tumour.

The band were forced to cancel a number of dates after Gahan was hospitalised with a severe bout of gastroenteritis.

A statement on the band's website read: "While in hospital, further medical tests revealed a low-grade malignant tumour in Dave's bladder, which has since been successfully removed. At doctors' orders, Dave Gahan must take a break until June 8 to ensure that he makes a full recovery.

"Dave Gahan sincerely thanks his fans for their support, understanding and patience. Depeche Mode deeply regret any problems or inconveniences the cancellations and postponements may have caused."

Depeche Mode will restart their tour with a show in Leipzig, Germany on June 8.

The band's May 30 concert at London's O2 will be rescheduled for a new date to be announced shortly, with original tickets to remain valid for the new show.