Following the hospitalization of GRAND MAGUS drummer Sebastian (afflicted with deep vein thrombosis - blood clots in the deep veins of the legs), tour partners GRAVE DIGGER have been forced to change their upcoming plans.

A message from frontman/founder, Chris Boltendahl reads as follows:

"We're very sorry to tell you that Grand Magus and SISTER SIN have been forced to cancel their appearances on the Grave Digger European tour.

Because of deep vein thrombosis, GM drummer Sebastian had to enter the hospital together with a strict stage veto. A substitute could not be found within this short period of time. And finally, two weeks before tour start, the financial tour calculation of SS has been blown away as well ... So, until yesterday, we've been left alone without any tour support.

But we're lucky to tell that we've found an equal value act named ORDEN OGAN, who will take the slot of GM for the complete tour dates. The alternate for SS will be the band DOWNSPIRIT, who will enter the stage for 8 shows. Mastermind of this band is Cede Dupont, some of you might know his name by former activities with acts like FREEDOM CALL or SYMPHORCE. Some shows will be supported by local acts as well.

We worked pretty hard to get the package together with GM on the road, so you can imagine our disappointment regarding this sad news. But of course all of you, especially the lads and lasses who saw our performance at the Wacken Open Air 2010, know that Grave Digger is the pure force and a guarantor for teutonic German metal at it's best!

We'll stretch out set for a few more songs to give you the final smash, so nobody will return home disappointed."

Grave Digger's tour schedule can be found at this location.