Sir Elton John resting after brush with 'deadly infection'

British singer Sir Elton John spent two nights in intensive care after suffering a “potentially deadly” bacteria infection in South America, his management has said.

The 70-year-old star – who has sold more than 200 million records – is now resting at home.

No details have been given on the exact nature of the illness but his management said in a statement that John had suffered an infection that was "rare and potentially deadly” and become violently ill at the end of his South America tour last week.

"Thankfully, Elton's medical team identified this quickly and treated it successfully. He is expected to make a full and complete recovery," it added.

He was rushed to the UK for treatment, and nine concerts in Las Vegas and California have now been cancelled.

The musician said: ”I am so fortunate to have the most incredible and loyal fans and apologise for disappointing them. I am extremely grateful to the medical team for their excellence in looking after me so well.”

He is due to continue with live performances in the UK on 3 June. He still has one year of dates left on his Million Dollar Piano tour.