Deacon Blue's co-founder James Prime is currently battling a serious illness in hospital, the band has announced. James, aged 64, will miss the band's forthcoming UK and Ireland tour due to his undisclosed health issues. The pop rock outfit, famed for hits like 'Real Gone Kid' and 'Dignity', broke the news on X, known as Twitter, confirming that James - or Jim, as he is warmly referred to - is receiving treatment in hospital. The statement included: "Unfortunately, he is seriously ill and undergoing care in hospital. We would like you to join us in wishing him well and to share your love with him."

Despite his condition, the keyboardist, who has been a part of Deacon Blue since their inception in 1985, has urged the band to press on with their UK and Ireland tour. The complete announcement stated: "Dear friends, We wanted to share some news with you about our brother, Jim. Unfortunately, he is seriously ill and undergoing care in hospital. We would like you to join us in wishing him well and to share your love with him.", reports the Mirror.

"We spoke to Jim yesterday about Deacon Blue's plans for the rest of the year, and he encouraged us to continue with love in our hearts and with his full blessing that the shows go ahead, even if it means replacing the irreplaceable James Miller Prime for the time being.

"Together with Jim's family, we want to thank all the nurses, doctors and ICU staff for their ongoing care, professionalism and compassion."

One fan expressed: "Sorry to hear this. My very best wishes to Jim." Another conveyed: "Sending love and best wishes xxxx".

A further supporter said: "Gutted to hear this, praying Jim pulls through. One of my keys heroes and such a huge talent. Thoughts are with the band and Jim's family."

Yet another shared: "All the best Jim. Thinking of your family and friends at this difficult time. Thanks to all the staff involved in Jim's care, you are very much appreciated."

After almost a decade of success, Deacon Blue disbanded in 1994. Their comeback performance in 1999 ignited the creation of a new album.

The band faced hardship when original guitarist Graeme Kelling passed away from pancreatic cancer in 2004, marking a pause until their acclaimed return with The Hipsters in 2012, celebrated by one BBC reviewer as embodying "a legitimate love for what they do".