Paul McCartney's note to fans

He became hoarse after performing on Saturday in Sheffield.

He was due to go back on stage at the Hallam Arena on Sunday but was forced to pull out.

"I've caught a cold which made my voice start to go after last night's show," the star explained.

"I woke up this morning with virtually no voice. I've been doing all that I can to try and get my voice back and I tried singing a couple of numbers at a sound check this afternoon - but nothing has worked and so I am afraid I have to cancel this show in order to save the other gigs on the tour."

I cancelled tonight in order to save the other gigs on the tour Sir Paul McCartney

He added: "I'm sorry to all the people who all bought tickets for the show, at least we got to do one gig in Sheffield."

Organisers hope to reschedule the show, ticketholders are being told.

This is the former Beatles' first UK tour in 10 years.

He has already taken his Back in the World tour around America, Canada, Mexico and Japan, playing 58 concerts in 37 cities.

Box office records

It broke box office records in 21 towns and McCartney has performed to more than one million people since last April.

He is due to play the MEN Arena, Manchester, on Wednesday and other planned appearances include the National Indoor Arena, Birmingham, on 13 and 14 April, and Earls Court, London, on 18 and 19 April.