Harry Styles has confirmed that his upcoming UK and European tour has been postponed until next year due to the coronavirus.

The former One Direction singer, 26, was due to begin his Love On Tour show in Birmingham on April 15 before visiting countries including Italy, Spain and France.

However due to the spread of COVID-19 across the continent, Styles has now taken the "obvious" decision to rearrange the dates for February and March 2021.

"Anyone who knows me, knows that performing has always been my favourite part of working in music," he wrote on Twitter. "However, during times like these, the safety and protection of touring crew, fans, and everyone else around the world is an immediate priority...

"For obvious reasons, the upcoming tour in the UK and Europe will be rescheduled to 2021. Tickets already purchased will be valid for these shows. In the meantime, we will be closely monitoring the situation around the world and will continue updating you in the months to come.

"For the safety of yourself and others, please self-isolate. We're all in this together. I can't wait to see you out on the road as soon as it's safe to do so. Until then, treat people with kindness. H."

The coronavirus pandemic has so far claimed more than 19,600 lives worldwide, while almost half a million people have now tested positive.