Steps forced to axe final tour dates amid further Covid cases: ‘We are so disappointed’

Steps have axed their upcoming tour dates due to coronavirus (Picture: PA)

Steps have announced that the remaining dates in their What The Future Holds tour have been axed, amid the Covid-19 pandemic.

The group – made up of Claire Richards, Lisa Scott Lee, Lee Latchford-Evans, Faye Tozer and Ian ‘H’ Watkins – confirmed the news in a statement, amid further coronavirus cases in their camp.

‘Hi everyone, unfortunately we now have further positive Covid-19 cases in our touring party which have made continuing with the What The Future Holds tour impossible,’ the message, shared on the Tragedy singer’s official social media pages, read.

‘For the safety of everyone involved in the show, we have decided to reschedule tonight’s Cardiff show and Wednesday’s Bournemouth show to summer 2022 (dates to be announced soon).

‘We have tried every way possible to continue with our final shows, however we have to put everyone’s health and safety as our top priority.

‘We are so disappointed to postpone these shows as we were really looking forward to performing for you all.’

They concluded: ‘We appreciate your continued support and hope you will join us in wishing those affected a speedy recovery – Claire, Faye, H, Lisa and Lee x.’

‘All I care about is your safety. Thank you guys so much for blessing us regardless,’ one replied. ‘You didn’t have to but you did. We’re so so grateful for all you have done. Pls stay safe so you can go back to your families soon. We love you so much and thank you for everything!’

‘Very sad news for @OfficialSteps and the fans, but safety does come first and with new cases shooting up it has to be for the best,’ another agreed. ‘The tour has been hit here & there, but fingers crossed 2022 will see you all back together for new shows.’

‘Awwww gutted for you all, you’ve worked so hard on this amazing show and it’s been soooooo amazing and you kept going no matter what was thrown your way however everyone safety is more important  THANKYOU for being amazing has ever [sic],’ a follower said.

Lee was forced to pull out of upcoming performances after testing positive (Picture: Backgrid)

‘Nooo. Safety comes first wishing everyone who has got Covid-19 a speedy recovery man Covid-19 is a pain in the rear it is the right thing to do xxx [sic],’ a Twitter user commented.

As one added: ‘Devastating for all involved, I’m sure. But you have to consider the health of all the crew above all. It’s not worth risking anyone’s safety. 

‘Well done for all the dates you achieved – it was a great show! And hope everyone who tests positive isn’t affected too badly.’

The news comes after Lee had to pull out of performances, following a positive test.

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He was forced to take a back seat from the group’s latest gig, while bandmate Faye was able to return to stage after she also tested positive earlier this month.

Steps delighted fans when they reunited for the first time in years in 2017, blessing fans with their Tears On The Dancefloor album.

They dropped their sixth studio album, What The Future Holds, last November and headed out on tour with the record after the release.

Their rescheduled dates have yet to be confirmed, but fingers crossed they will be getting back together soon.

This is a breaking news story, more to follow soon… Check back shortly for further updates.

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