The singer, who fronts Newcastle rock band The Wildhearts, has a rare form of blood cancer, Mantle Cell Lymphoma, but said he had refused treatment.

His condition came to light during the band's More Satanic Rites tour in December, when Wildheart was forced to take short breaks from stage due to severe pain.

"No misery please, positivity all the way," he said, in a statement on social media. "I've lived the life of 10 men and will die with dignity."

The 61-year-old from South Shields added: "Still got 2-3 years to say goodbye to everyone. And I'll be rocking until the very last moment."

Mantle cell lymphoma is rare and affects white blood cells called B lymphocytes.

About 600 people are diagnosed with it in the UK each year, according to Blood Cancer UK.

The band broke the news to fans in a message on social media and described the cancer as "rare but aggressive".

But despite the pain he experienced, the band said Wildheart continued to perform for the duration of the tour.

"Determined not to upset the band's loyal fans - new and old - Ginger took painkillers to ensure the rock 'n' roll was delivered, without missing a riff," the band said.

"Right now Ginger is in a fine fettle, continuing to write songs that will be released under the guise of The Wildhearts and as solo projects in the future."

The band said all currently announced concerts would go ahead and more gigs were still to be announced.

"While we process this news and await further medical advice, Ginger wants everyone to know that strength and positivity prevail and the show will go on," the band said.

The Wildhearts formed in Newcastle in 1989 and have had several top 20 singles and two top 10 albums.

There most recent album Satanic Rites of the Wildhearts was released in 2025.

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