Mika takes break from music

Mika has revealed that a recurring ear infection means that he will have to stop touring for a while.

The 'Big Girls' singer played at the V festival this weekend, but has claimed that his performance there will be one of his last until he can shake off his illness.

He said: "I had an ear infection quite a while ago and because we've been on tour for a year there's been very little recovery time, so it just hits me every time I get tired.

The pop star added: "I decided to take some time off after V and hang around London. I'm looking forward to being able to rest because the last thing I want to do is cancel gigs."

Mika was forced to pull out of an appearance at the Big Chill festival earlier in the month and also cancelled a set of tour dates in Denmark due to his recent illness.

Meanwhile, the 'Grace Kelly' singer was joined during his V performance by Sophie Ellis Bextor for a rendition of his album track 'Lollipop'. Ellis Bextor came on stage dressed a penguin for the show finale.