Country singer George Jones has axed two weekend (02-04Nov12) concerts in Minnesota after falling ill.

The veteran music star was initially due to perform at the Shooting Star Casino, Hotel and Event Center in Mahnomen back in April (12), but had to postpone the gig after coming down with a respiratory infection.

He rescheduled the date for Friday (02Nov12), but now he's been forced to cancel the show for a second time due to new health problems. Jones has also pulled out of a performance at Deadwood Mountain Grand in Deadwood on Saturday (03Nov12).

A statement from the 81 year old's spokesperson reads, "He has gotten a virus that doctors are treating, but he is unable to perform his weekend... George apologises to all his fans for all the inconvenience."

The news will come as a blow to local fans as it was Jones' last scheduled gigs in Minnesota before he plans to retire from touring next year (13).