Morrissey has been forced to reschedule two Canadian tour dates in the wake of a "medical emergency".

The English singer/songwriter and author, who formerly served as the Smiths' frontman, was set to perform two dates at the Orpheum in Vancouver, once on Sunday night and once tonight.

The news of the cancellations comes from a statement released by Ticketmaster on Saturday night, which reads: "Due to a medical emergency stemming from an accident incurred while travelling in Europe, Morrissey will be forced to postpone his performances in Vancouver to October 14th and 15th, 2019.

"Spirits are high and the artist is on the path to a swift recovery.  All tickets will be valid for the new date and exchanges will not be necessary. Thank you for your understanding.

"Morrissey looks forward to making his long-awaited return to the city and wishes to deeply thank everyone for their patience. All remaining dates on Morrissey’s tour will resume as planned, commencing in Toronto on Friday, April 26."

The shows would have marked Morrissey's first Canadian concert dates in 15 years. As an outspoken animal rights advocate, he has previously refused to play in Canada due to its seal hunt.

Writing on the website Morrissey Central last September, the artist said: "My decision to return to Canada after almost 15 years of protest against its savage and Neanderthal annual Baby Seal Kill is entirely because my stance was ultimately of no use and helped no one.

"My voice was drowned out by the merciless swing of spiked axes crushing the heads of babies. On my return to Canada I feel that I can be of more use by making sizeable donations to animal protection groups in each city that I play."