Former One Direction star Liam Payne says he is been compelled to cancel gigs after spending time in hospital with a "serious kidney infection".

The 29-year-old singer stated he had "no choice" however to postpone his upcoming tour of South America "with a heavy heart".

"Over the past week I've been in hospital with a serious kidney infection," Payne posted on Instagram.

"It's something I wouldn't wish on anyone, and doctors' orders are that I now need to rest and recover."

He added: "I used to be past excited to come back play for you guys.

"To all of you who have bought tickets: I'm so sorry. We're working to re-schedule the tour as soon as we possibly can, but for now we will be refunding the tickets - so please look out for updates from your point of purchase.

"Thanks as at all times for the love and assist, and stay up for seeing you quickly."

In an accompanying video, Payne stated he had begun rehearsing for the tour however been advised that "now was really not the right time to be out on the road".

Once he has recovered he'll return with an "even bigger, better show", he vowed.

Payne launched into a solo profession after One Direction introduced they had been happening an indefinite hiatus in 2015.

He was a part of the unique line-up, fashioned in 2010, alongside Zayn Malik, Louis Tomlinson, Niall Horan and Harry Styles.

Content Source: information.sky.com