Singer Gahan undergoes cancer op

Depeche Mode have cancelled nine gigs since the start of the tour

Depeche Mode singer Dave Gahan has had surgery to remove a cancerous tumour in his bladder, according to the band's official website.

The British electronic band are currently on a world tour but have cancelled several shows because of the 47-year-old's ongoing health problems.

He was diagnosed with gastroenteritis before further medical tests revealed a "low-grade malignant tumour".

It has now been removed. Gahan has been ordered to rest until 8 June.

The band will then resume their Tour Of The Universe in Leipzig, Germany.

Eight shows between now and then have been postponed, including a gig at London's 02 on 30 May. The concerts will be rescheduled to later dates.

The band have also cancelled a planned appearance at the Pinkpop festival in the Netherlands on 31 May.

In a statement on the site, Gahan "sincerely thanks his fans for their support, understanding and patience".

The band go on to say they "deeply regret any problems or inconveniences the cancellations and postponements may have caused".