Black Sabbath's Tony Iommi Releases Statement Following Cancer Diagnosis

Black Sabbath's Tony Iommi has released a statement following news that he has been diagnosed with cancer.

The guitarist, aged 63, revealed to fans last week that he has been battling the early stages of lymphoma.

In a statement on his official website, Iommi wrote: "I just want to say how overwhelmed I am with all your messages of support, thank you so much. Well it's not what I wanted for Christmas, that's for sure, but now I can't wait for the test results to come in and get going with the treatment."

He continued: "It's really good that the guys are coming over so that we can continue working on the album as things are going great in the studio. Not much else to say at this time, so thanks again."

Black Sabbath are set to headline next year’s Download Festival on June 10.

The original line-up of the band - Ozzy Osbourne, Tony Iommi, Bill Ward and Geezer Butler - announced at a press conference today (November 11) that they will reunite for new material and a world this year.

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