Comedian Milton Jones cancels tour dates as he reveals prostate cancer diagnosis

Comedian says he is battling as he announces a number of tour dates have been postponed as he undergoes surgery.

The much-loved standup, who has also appeared on comedy shows including Mock The Week, confirmed he will have an operation in the coming weeks after being diagnosed with prostate cancer, which he confirmed is "treatable". He will focus on his recovery before returning to the stage as fans showered the star with support.

The funnyman, 60, joked that "abnormal service will resume as soon as possible" as he vowed to overcome the disease. Milton had been due at dozens of UK venues from next month but will focus on his health before picking up the mic.

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He said in a statement: “I’m so sorry about this, but I need to announce the cancellation of several dates from my ongoing Ha!Milton live tour. The affected shows are in Leeds, Coventry, Basingstoke, Sterts, Launceston, Durham, Hexham, Ilkley, Wakefield, Lichfield, Tunbridge Wells, Portsmouth, and Lyme Regis which were all due to take place this summer.

"This difficult decision comes following a recent diagnosis of treatable prostate cancer. I’ll be undergoing surgery soon and will need time afterwards to fully recover.

"In addition, the Summer dates in Colchester, Bridlington, Stroud, and London will be rescheduled to the Autumn. All dates currently scheduled for the Autumn leg of the tour remain unaffected. Ticket holders for the cancelled shows will be contacted directly by the venue box office.

"Thanks for your support and respecting my privacy during this time. This decision has not been taken lightly. Trust me, abnormal service will resume as soon as possible and I’m looking forward to being back out on the road again soon—though probably not on a bike!”

Milton's dead-pan delivery and incredible timing has seen the entertainer established as one of the nation's top comedians. His career took off after appearances on Mock The Week and Live At The Apollo and ticket sales for his 70-venue summer gigs sold fast.

Fans were quick to send the comedian their love after he took to social media to explain why he will be off stage for quite some time. One told him: "Take as much time as you need, hoping all goes well."

Another said: "Understandable Milton, get well soon and we look forward to laughing at you again when you are better...take care." while someone teased back to Milton: "A problem which you are grateful the Doctor was able to put their finger on. Good luck, many things they can do with prostate cancer when caught early."

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