Blink 182 cancel UK tour

Tom DeLonge (left) has slipped a disc in his back

US rockers Blink 182 have been forced to cancel their UK tour after an injury to singer Tom DeLonge.

The guitarist has slipped a disc in his back and he may need surgery.

The band were due to play a series of arena dates next month but a back specialist has advised the chart star that he must rest.

The band have been once of the biggest acts to come out of the US in the last three years, with UK top ten hits including All the Small Things.

Rest

DeLonge said that a specialist told him that he needed to be off his feet and must seek treatment.

He said: "My condition may require surgery and I will be re-evaluated in eight weeks. At that time, we'll be able to make plans for the future."

Blink 182 were due to play the London Arena

A spokesman said: "He's not up to jumping around in a nu-metal style."

The band had been due to play three London dates and shows in Nottingham, Manchester, Glasgow and Dublin.

They have also cancelled their European gigs.

Success

Blink 182 were formed in 1993, but came to international prominence with the 1999 album Enema of the State.

The CD sold over seven million copies worldwide and spawned three hits.

The group won best group video at the MTV Awards last year for All the Small Things and also walked off the best new act at the MTV Europe Awards.

Blink 182 won best rock act at this year's ceremony in Frankfurt beating Crazy Town, Limp Bizkit, Linkin Park and U2.

The band's latest album, Take Off Your Pants And Jacket, has sold more than three million copies worldwide.

The other two members of the band are bassist Mark Hoppas and drummer Travis Barker.