The Bothy Band have today cancelled both of their National Concert Hall appearances this summer, originally billed for July 27 and August 24 due to a major surgery.

In a statement released by the group, it read: "Founder member of the Bothy Band, Dónal Lunny, has recently undergone major surgery that will require a lengthy recuperation".

It is not only the group's Dublin dates that will be cancelled to facilitate Lunny's convalescence period: "This will prevent the Bothy Band from fulfilling all concerts planned for the summer and autumn of 2024".

The statement continued saying: "The members of the Bothy Band very much regret that we are obliged to cancel all concerts for 2024 as the recovery of Dónal comes first".

While there were no concrete details provided regarding a new date, the band did say: "We are hopeful that we can re-schedule concerts for 2025".

The group requested that fans respect Dónal's privacy during his recovery.

Speaking on today's news the National Concert Hall said that they will refund all ticket holders and apologise for any inconvenience caused.

The organisation also extended their best wishes to Dónal Lunny in his recovery.