Opera singer undergoes emergency surgery for tumour

SINGER Russell Watson remains in a critical condition in hospital but the signs are positive, hospital bosses said last night.

The popular opera singer underwent three hours of emergency surgery yesterday on a brain tumour but is now conscious and sitting up in bed talking, they added.

The father of two, aged 40, was rushed to the Alexandra Hospital in Cheadle, Cheshire, after falling ill on Wednesday.

Michael Stroud, executive director of the hospital, said: “Russell Watson was rushed into the Alexandra around 5pm (Wednesday) evening.

“He was recording in the studio when he suddenly became incapacitated with multiple symptoms, including a dramatic deterioration of vision.

“After an MRI scan had found regrowth of a previous brain tumour and some bleeding, he was recommended to undergo emergency surgery.”

Mr Stroud added: “It is only 12 months since Russell first had surgery to remove a tumour that was diagnosed while recording in America.

“Russell is currently in the ITU (Intensive Therapy Unit) and his condition remains critical.”

Mr Watson, who has two daughters aged under 12, battled a benign brain tumour last year and had been recovering well from surgery.

The Salford-born tenor used to be a factory worker and started on the road to stardom by singing in pubs and clubs in the north.

Mr Watson found himself a huge success and was asked to perform at David and Victoria Beckham’s glittering pre-World Cup party in 2002.

The housewives’ favourite has gone on to sell more than four million albums worldwide.

He was due to fly to LA next week to perform at a Bafta awards ceremony for British artists in the US.

His latest album is due for release next month.

It is understood he spoke to his children before going into theatre at around 11am and family and friends are now at the hospital.