Zayn Malik cancels concert over 'extreme anxiety' about major solo shows

Former One Direction star Zayn Malik has cancelled a scheduled concert because of his "extreme anxiety" about major solo performances.

The Bradford-born singer had been due to appear at Autism Rocks in Dubai on October 7 but has pulled out because he does not feel confident enough to perform.

In a message to fans he said: "I have been working over the last three months to overcome my extreme anxiety around major live solo performances."

Thomas Ovesen, CEO of concert organiser 117Live, said: "Whilst disappointed not to be hosting the planned October 7 Dubai concert we appreciate Zayn's honest apologies and wish him all the best for the future.

"We will be looking forward to sharing more of Zayn's plans with his Middle East fans when we have such information and will now get the ticket refund process started!! See you all at our other events at the Autism Rocks Arena!"

In June Malik, 23, pulled out of the Capital Summertime Ball in London, blaming his anxiety.

He quit One Direction in March 2015 after he was signed off for stress during the band's world tour.