band member has been rushed to intensive care after falling ill. The keyboard player, who helped form the band in Glasgow in 1985, is currently seriously unwell, according to the band's page.

"Dear friends, we wanted to share some news with you about our brother, Jim," they stated. "Unfortunately, he is seriously ill and undergoing care in hospital. We would like you to join us in wishing him well and to share our love with him. We spoke to Jim yesterday about Deacon Blue's plans for the rest of the year, and he encouraged us to continue with love in our hearts and with his full blessing that the shows go ahead, even if it means replacing the irreplaceable James Miller Prime for the time being."

They signed off with, "Together with Jim's family, we want to thank all the nurses, doctors, and ICU staff for their ongoing care, professionalism, and compassion."

James plays alongside fellow members Ricky Ross and Lorraine McIntosh, drummer Dougie Vipond, guitarist Gregor Philp, and bassist Lewis Gordon. They shot to fame in the 1980s with their album Raintown and during their career have sold over seven million copies of their 12 albums.

The band has just released a new album, titled The Great Western Road. It is not stated what James has been hospitalised with.

One fan said in the comment section, "Love to Jim and the Deacon blue family! X," as another chimed in, "Wishing Jim a speedy recovery and you all safe travels on your musical journeys."

A third similarly echoed, "Wishing Jim all the positive vibes for recovery." A fourth also stated, "My very best wishes to Jim for a swift recovery and to all the Deacon Blues! X."

James was born in Kilmarnock, East Ayrshire, and began his career as a session musician in 1980 on an Altered Images tour in the USA.

Deacon Blue has become one of Scotland's best-known acts. After splitting in 1994, the band reunited and have since released seven more albums.