DOVES have cancelled their Forest Live gig next summer due to one of the band members mental health.

Lead vocalist Jimi Goodwin, said it was a decision he hadn't taken lightly as he issued an apology to all those people who had already bought tickets.

The gig was due to take place on Sunday, June 19 2022, but the band have cancelled all of their upcoming gigs for the sake of their colleague.

In a statement, Goodwin, who is also the band's bassist, said: "I am unfortunately unable to commit to forthcoming Doves live dates, meaning they have to be cancelled.

"My decision to bow out, is believe me, not something I’ve taken lightly.

"One should never apologise for having issues with their mental health, but I do want to say ‘sorry’ to all that have bought tickets.

"I’m truly grateful for the patience, love and understanding of my brothers Andy, Jez and Rebelski.

"I’m also incredibly grateful for the support, love and appreciation folks have shown for Doves’ music over the years.

"The reception ‘The Universal Want’ received, our first LP in eleven years, left us immensely proud. W

"What fantastic affirmation of Jez, Andy and I.

Sunshine in these tumultuous times. Thank you."

A statement issued on behalf of the band offering fans its sincere apologies, adding that it was difficult to put into words.

They said: "We are gutted to have to say that all upcoming Doves live dates have to be cancelled.

"We have to take each other’s welfare as seriously as the music and, sadly, mental health issues simply mean that performing live isn’t possible for us at this time or for the immediate future."

A Forestry England spokesperson said: "We are sorry to announce that Doves have had to cancel their Delamere Forest concert scheduled to take place on Sunday, June 19 2022 as part of our Forest Live concert series.

"Customers for this performance will be contacted by their point of purchase to arrange a refund.

"Unfortunately, the concert cannot be rescheduled so Forestry England will be securing a new headline artist for this Forest Live date.

"We apologise for any inconvenience caused and our thoughts are with the band at this difficult time."