SIR Elton John is confident he will be able to play in the region tomorrow night, depite pulling out of a major show today.

The musician had been due to play at Sheffield Arena as part of his Red Piano tour, but was advised to rest to recover after being taken ill with flu.

Promoters said other dates he is due to play this month - including a show tomorrow night in Newcastle at the Metro Radio Arena - will be unaffected.

Doctors visited the star today, confirmed he had flu and advised him to rest.

A spokesman for Sir Elton said: "Elton is terribly disappointed that he is unable to perform the Red Piano show for the people of Sheffield.

"He has always enjoyed a tremendous reaction from the audiences every time he has performed at the Arena."

Promoter Marshall Arts said ticket holders for Sheffield should retain tickets and an announcement about the concert will be made on Monday.