Sir Tom Jones tells of 'tough few months' since wife's death

Sir Tom Jones has spoken about the "tough few months" since the death of his wife as he prepares to perform again.

Veteran singer Sir Tom, 75, is gearing up for his first concerts since wife Linda died after a "fierce" battle with cancer in April.

He was married to childhood sweetheart Lady Melinda Rose Woodward - known as Linda - for 59 years, and was at her bedside when she passed away.

Speaking to the BBC, Sir Tom said he is "back in it and getting back in form."

He had suggested in a new autobiography written before his wife's death he wouldn't be able to carry on singing "if something happened to her."

But he said it was Linda's wish that he keep on performing after she had gone.

Sir Tom said: "Singing is what I do. I'm a singer and I love to sing. I have to be strong.

He said his partner had kept him "grounded" throughout his glittering career, asking him "who do you think you are, Tom Jones?" when catching him acting "larger than life."

Sir Tom added: "She kept my feet on the ground. She was a wonderful, wonderful person.

Sir Tom was forced to cancel his Asian tour when Linda fell to be at her bedside with their only son, Mark, and she died on April 10 at the Cedars Sinai Hospital in Los Angeles, California.

But he's due to perform at Hampton Court Palace on June 8th as he prepares his comeback following the tragedy, with a full UK tour to follow.

After announcing his gigs on Facebook, Sir Tom wrote: "It means a huge amount to be able to continue to perform for such a loyal and giving audience; your support has been uplifting and doesn't go unnoticed. See you all at the shows this summer