Coldplay vow to reschedule shows

Martin was urged to rest so he could finish the tour

Coldplay have apologised to their fans in the US after cancelling two shows due to illness.

Singer Chris Martin was advised to rest by his doctor after being struck down with throat problems.

As a result the band pulled out of concerts in Tampa, Florida, on 14 September and in Birmingham, Alabama, on 16 September.

Coldplay drummer Will Champion reassured fans that the band would reschedule the dates next year.

Refunds offered

In a statement on the band's website, Champion said: "It is with great regret that we have had to cancel our shows in your towns this week.

"Chris is suffering from some issues with his throat and it was felt by his doctor that if he didn't give his voice a rest he might not be able to sing for the rest of the US dates.

"Please be assured that we are planning to return to the US in the spring of 2006 and when we do we will definitely reschedule both of these shows.

"Lastly, I and the band apologise for any inconvenience we may have caused due to the cancellation of these shows."

People with tickets to the cancelled Birmingham show at the Verizon Wireless Pavilion are being asked to return their tickets for a refund.