The White Stripes cancel UK gigs

US garage rockers The White Stripes today cancelled their UK tour dates, including Newcastle.

Jack and Meg White announced today that they are cancelling the tour - which incuded a date at Newcastle's Metro Radio Arena on Friday, October 26 - due to health issues.

Drummer Meg is suffering from acute anxiety, and is unable to travel at this time.

A statement from the band - best known for hits such as Hotel Yorba, Seven Nation Army and My Doorbell - said they sincerely apologise to their fans.

It concluded: "We hate to let people down and are very sorry."

Fans who have already bought tickets for the Arena show can obtain a refund at the point of purchase.

The other shows affected are in Glasgow, Manchester, Birmingham, Cardiff, Sheffield, Nottingham and London.