Sting says he is ‘steadily improving’ from infection which ‘prevented singing’

By Ellie Iorizzo and Hannah Roberts, PA

Sting said he is “steadily improving” from a temporary throat infection, after postponing two concerts and cancelling an awards ceremony appearance on doctor’s advice.

The former Police frontman was due to perform at the Bass Magazine Awards in California on Thursday, where he was to be honoured with a lifetime achievement award.

He also postponed shows in Phoenix, Arizona, and Wheatland, California, as well as a performance at a record label’s concert, which had all been scheduled for this month.

“I am steadily improving from a temporary throat infection which has prevented me from singing, though I’m looking forward to resuming my performances and rescheduled shows soon,” the 73-year-old wrote on Instagram.

The British star praised his fans “for all of the well wishes”, signing it off with “love, Sting”.

It is not yet known whether he will still perform as expected at the FireAid charity concert on January 30, raising money to rebuild communities devastated by the Los Angeles wildfires and supporting efforts to prevent future fire disasters.

His comments come a day after a post to his social media, which said: “On advisement from his doctor, due to illness, it is with sincere regret that Sting must cancel his appearance at the Bass Magazine Awards this Thursday and postpone his Sting 3.0 concerts in Phoenix, AZ (originally scheduled for January 24) to June 1 and Wheatland, CA (originally scheduled for January 26) to May 28 as well as his performance at the Cherrytree Music Company’s 20th anniversary, now taking place May 29.

“Fans should retain their tickets for the postponed shows, as they will be honoured on the new dates.

“Sting sincerely apologises for any inconvenience and extends his gratitude to the fans for their understanding.”

Sting rose to fame with new wave rock band, The Police, in the late 1970s and early 80s before embarking on a successful solo career.

He has had three number one albums in the UK chart and three top 10 singles with tracks All For Love (with Bryan Adams and Sir Rod Stewart), When We Dance, and Rise And Fall (with Craig David).