Dave Gahan is recovering from an operation to remove a tumour

Depeche Mode frontman Dave Gahan is recovering from an operation to remove a bladder tumour.

The synth-pop group have now called off a gig at London's 02 arena on Saturday, which will be re-scheduled, while the star recovers.

Gahan was taken to hospital after suffering a severe bout of gastroenteritis on May 12 during the band's Tour Of The Universe, and a statement from the group today said: "While in hospital, further medical tests revealed a low grade malignant tumour in Dave's bladder, which has since been successfully removed."

It went on: "At doctors' orders Dave Gahan must take a break until June 8, to ensure that he makes a full recovery."

The postponed gig is the latest in a string of dates which Depeche Mode have been forced to scrap.

A show in Leipzig, Germany, on that date will be their first concert to be played following the frontman's recovery.

The band said: "Dave Gahan sincerely thanks his fans for their support, understanding and patience. Depeche Mode deeply regret any problems or inconveniences the cancellations and postponements may have caused."