Iron Maiden frontman Bruce Dickinson has revealed he is battling cancer.

A statement on the band’s official website said the 56-year-old rocker has undergone treatment for a cancerous tumour on his tongue.

The cancer was diagnosed during a routine check-up just before Christmas and Dickinson has just completed a seven-week course of chemotherapy and radiology.

The statement said: “As the tumour was caught in the early stages, the prognosis thankfully is extremely good. Bruce’s medical team fully expect him to make a complete recovery with the all-clear envisaged by late May. It will then take a further few months for Bruce to get back to full fitness. In the meantime, we would ask for your patience, understanding and respect for Bruce and his family’s privacy until we update everyone by the end of May. Bruce is doing very well considering the circumstances and the whole team is very positive.”

Fans took to Twitter to offer messages of support for The Number of the Beast singer.

Stuart Hollis wrote: “Sending best wishes to the legend that is Bruce Dickinson”, while SteveO’Donoghue tweeted: “Let’s all hope it was caught soon enough. My all time hero!!! #brucedickinson get well soon.”

Iron Maiden toured Europe last summer.