SINGER Russell Watson has been forced to postpone his December tour dates after an operation to remove a brain tumour.

The singer was due to perform at the Bournemouth International Centre on December 9 but has had to reschedule for March 17 2007.

Russell shot to fame in 1999 when his performance at Old Trafford before Manchester United's Premiership winning match, earned him a standing ovation and a flood of other offers.

The former factory worker from Salford has been advised not to undertake the heavy schedule his UK tour would bring and to rest until he has completely recovered from surgery. Russell has continued to have weekly check-ups and is recovering slowly.

All tickets for the Bournemouth show will be valid for the new date, with refunds available for the next four weeks from the BIC and Pavilion Theatre ticket office in person or by calling 0870 111 3000.

Tickets are priced £20. The show starts at 7.30pm.