Speculation over what’s happing with the Rolling Stones and guitarist Keith Richards has been rife over the last few days. All rumours have now been put to bed with a statement on behalf of the band just released.

For those of you not up to speed, Keith Richards fell out of a coconut tree while on holiday in Fiji earlier this month and was taken to hospital in New Zealand and reportedly treated for mild concussion. It was later reported that Richards had suffered a brain haemorrhage, though last week the Rolling Stones announced that their world tour would begin on the 27th May as planned.

A statement released today has confirmed that Richards has had brain surgery “to remove the pressure” after he complained of headaches. The Stones’ world tour will continue, though it will now begin in June.

The full statement reads as follows:

“Keith Richards underwent surgery this morning at The Ascot Hospital in Auckland, New Zealand. The operation was a complete success and Keith is already up and talking with his family today. He will need a few weeks recuperation.

Last week Keith was under observation in Auckland following a fall in Fiji and was feeling well after being examined by doctors last week, however after complaining of headaches yesterday doctors thought it prudent to move ahead with a small operation to remove the pressure. The Rolling Stones A Bigger Bang European tour goes ahead and will now start in June 2006.

Full details of the re-scheduling of the tour will be announced shortly.“