Saxon frontman Biff Byford has clarified the nature of his recent cancer diagnosis, revealing that he is battling bowel cancer. The announcement came in a statement released earlier today, in which he also corrected a misinterpretation from a previous post that had suggested he had prostate cancer.
Byford had surgery on July 8, which he says was successful in removing the cancer. To ensure no cancer cells remain, he will undergo a short period of chemotherapy, which has resulted in the cancellation or postponement of some shows. However, he reassured fans that the band’s upcoming UK and Ireland “Hell, Fire & Steel” tour in November will go on as planned, as will their performance at Metal Hammer Paradise in Germany.
The singer’s full statement is as follows:
“Firstly thanks to everyone for their wonderful messages of support it really does mean a great deal to me.
“Following Friday’s post I just wanted to clear up a couple of things that seem to have been slightly misinterpreted. Firstly, I just want to quickly clarify that I actually have bowel cancer not prostate cancer although I did have a scan on my prostate. Also, as reported in some media, we have not postponed all of our upcoming shows, only the shows that clashed with my chemotherapy treatment sessions.
“All of our special UK & Ireland ‘Hell, Fire & Steel‘ tour dates this November are still going ahead as planned. There are not many tickets left now for these shows so grab them quick so as not to be disappointed. This will be the very last time we play our classic hit album ‘Wheels Of Steel‘ from start to finish in the UK. We are also still playing Metal Hammer Paradise in Lübeck, Germany this November too. All of the rescheduled shows will be announced here imminently too.
“Tickets for all shows are available from www.saxon747.com.
“Thanks again for all your amazing support.”
Byford had previously mentioned that his cancer was discovered during an MRI scan on his prostate gland. He has stated that his prognosis is “good” and that he is focused on his recovery, with the goal of being back on stage with the band soon. The ongoing treatment has forced Saxon to adjust their touring schedule, but they remain committed to their fans and their upcoming performances.
