Depeche Mode were last night forced to cancel a concert in Athens after frontman Dave Gahan was taken ill and rushed to hospital.

Around 20,000 fans have gathered in the Greek capital for the show but just before it was about to start they were informed it had been canceled.

A spokesman told the audience: "Dave is not well, we have had a doctor in to see him backstage and unfortunately the advice from the doctor is that Dave cannot perform.

"He is on his way to the hospital now for a check-up. I apologise on behalf of Dave and Depeche Mode - Dave really wanted to be well enough to perform.

"I am very sorry there is nothing we can do - he is genuinely ill. He asked me to pass on my apologies to you all."

The band, who started their world tour in Tel Aviv at the weekend, are yet to comment on the incident or confirm the reason Gahan was taken to hospital.

(by Daniel Melia)