Slayer have been forced to postpone their March UK tour due to bassist/vocalist Tom Araya's ongoing back injury.

As well as the UK shows, the heavy metal titans have also axed their American and Canadian Carnage Tour dates this month as well as European shows in April.

The band's manager Rick Sales said: "Tom gave various medical treatments more than a fair shot but they just haven't handled the problem, so he's biting the bullet and is scheduled for back surgery at the end of this month.

"As unfortunate as this is for so many people - the Megadeth and Testament camps, the concerts' promoters, and, of course, the fans - Tom's health is the number one priority, and this has to happen."

The March UK shows were rearranged from last November which were axed to Araya's ongoing problem.

(by Scott Colothan)