London, Feb 1 (ANI): Rockers Status Quo have been forced to scrap three shows after singer/guitarist Rick Parfitt fell ill.

The band had to perform in Ipswich, but the gigs had to be cancelled after Parfitt was diagnosed with an upper respiratory tract infection.

“We’re really sorry to have to let the fans down, but Rick has picked up an infection and is in no fit state to take to the stage and the last thing we would ever want to do is to give a substandard performance,” the Daily Express quoted frontman Francis Rossi as saying on the band’s official website.

Meanwhile, organisers have failed to reschedule scrap gigs due to scheduling conflicts and fans have been asked to apply for refunds.

Parfitt underwent heart bypass surgery in 1997 and suffered a cancer scare in 2005 when growths were found in his throat.

The growths were subsequently found to be benign. (ANI)