SINGER Jacqui Abbott has pulled out of her headline shows and festival appearances with Paul Heaton this summer, including Neighbourhood Weekender.

The music extravaganza takes place in Latchford's Victoria Park on Saturday, May 27, and Sunday, May 28 - the final bank holiday weekend.

After Paul and Jacqui's latest album 'N.K. Pop' went to Number One in October, they planned a highly-anticipated arena tour last year, followed by plans for further headline slots and festival appearances this summer.

Jacqui and Paul delighted fans with her fabulous homecoming gig at the Totally Wicked Stadium in neighbouring St Helens last summer.

But after just three gigs on the 'N.K. Pop' tour, Jacqui had to pull out of shows in Bridlington, Glasgow, and Stockton following medical advice.

Warrington Guardian: Jacqui had to pull out of many dates of the pair's 'N.K. Pop' tourJacqui had to pull out of many dates of the pair's 'N.K. Pop' tour (Image: Paul Heaton & Jacqui Abbott)

It was hoped that Jacqui's health and voice would quickly recover, but following further medical investigation, the Sutton singer pulled out of the remaining dates of the UK tour, including a huge gig at Manchester Arena on Saturday, December 10.

She was also forced to pull out of the Irish and Northern Irish leg dates of the tour back in February.

Warrington Guardian: Jacqui has been advised to sit out of further shows this summerJacqui has been advised to sit out of further shows this summer (Image: Dave Gillespie)

While Jacqui and the band aimed for her return for their summer tour dates, Paul Heaton announced that his singing partner would not be by his side anytime soon.

This will affect the headline show at Neighbourhood Weekender in Warrington, with the former Housemartin to be joined by special guest vocalists instead.

Warrington Guardian: Paul Heaton & Jacqui Abbott on stage at the Totally Wicked StadiumPaul Heaton & Jacqui Abbott on stage at the Totally Wicked Stadium (Image: Dave Gillespie)

In a statement on Twitter, Paul Heaton said: "Following further medical advice, it is with sadness that we must inform you that Jacqui will not be able to appear with Paul and the band at their headline shows and festival appearances this summer.

"We hope you'll join us in wishing Jacqui a continued and speedy recovery.

"We are however pleased to confirm that the shows will still take place and Paul will be joined by special guest vocalists (to be announced) at all the summer dates as well as two brand new headline shows.

"These shows will see Paul peforming songs from throughout his career including classic tracks from the Beautiful South and Housemartins."