George Jones Axes Gig After Falling Ill

Country singer George Jones has axed two weekend (02-04Nov12) concerts in Minnesota after falling ill.

The veteran music star was initially due to perform at the Shooting Star Casino, Hotel and Event Center in Mahnomen back in _A_pril (12), but had to postpone the gig after coming down with a respiratory infection.

He rescheduled the date for Friday (02Nov12), but now he's been forced to cancel the show for a second time due to new health problems. Jones has also pulled out of a performance at Deadwood Mountain Grand in Deadwood on Saturday (03Nov12).

A statement from the 81 year old's spokesperson reads, "He has gotten a virus that doctors are treating, but he is unable to perform his weekend... George apologises to all his fans for all the inconvenience."

The news will come as a blow to local fans as it was Jones' last scheduled gigs in Minnesota before he plans to retire from touring next year (13).