REM star hospitalised before gig

REM bassist Mike Mills was taken to hospital today before the band were set to perform tonight.

Fans who went to see the band at Sheffield's Hallam FM Arena were disappointed when a tearful Michael Stipe walked on stage after the Georgian support act had performed and announced that the band would not be performing their planned set due to Mills' illness.

He revealed that Mills had been taken to hospital earlier suffering from a severe ear infection and a debilitating bout of flu. He added that this had not been announced earlier as the band hoped that he would recover in time to perform the show.

To keep fans happy, the band showcased a brief acoustic set featuring hits such as The One I Love, Leaving New York, I've Been High, and Losing My Religion.

Fans were assured that their tickets would still be valid for a rescheduled date, June 15, when REM will return to the arena to perform their only indoor show in the UK this summer.