Black Sabbath's Tony Iommi fights Lymphoma.

Black Sabbath guitarist Tony Iommi is to undergo treatment for cancer after being diagnosed with lymphoma. His bandmates - with whom he has recently been reunited to record a new album - have asked for fans to send 'positive vibes' to the 63-year-old musician. The hard rock pioneers recently reformed with their original line-up to work on their first album together for 33 years. A statement released on behalf of the band said: 'Iommi is currently working with his doctors to establish the best treatment plan -the Iron Man of rock & roll remains upbeat and determined to make a full and successful recovery.' The group, widely credited with creating heavy metal, insist they will plough on with plans for the new album. Black Sabbath had also lined up a series of major dates during the year. Iommi and colleagues Ozzy Osbourne, bass player Geezer Butler and drummer Bill Ward announced last year that they were together again once more. They had been writing and recording in Los Angeles with producer Rick Rubin on an album due for release in the autumn.

Slowmotion Apocalypse Guitarist NICOLAS MILANESE Diagnosed With Leukaemia

A statement from the band's official MySpace.com page reads: "Unfortunately, this time we're writing for giving you bad news (sic). Only few (sic) days ago we discovered Nicolas suffers from leukaemia. He will have to go through a rather long period of therapy and this won't allow him to give his contribution to the life of Slowmotion Apocalypse.

"We're all shocked and as a band we decided to wait for him to be able to have a normal life and to be able to play with us again. We are therefore taking a pause for an indeterminate period of time. All our shows are cancelled. We're sure you'll understand the reasons of our choice.
"A special message to all our friends: Nicolas needs first of all to have a rest. We ask you not to call him but rather send him text messages."

S2M wishes Nicolas well in his leukaemia journey.