Saxon, the iconic British heavy metal band, has announced the cancellation of ten summer shows across Europe as their frontman, Biff Byford, is set to undergo emergency surgery. The band's management emphasized that the health and well-being of the band members are of utmost importance, leading to this difficult decision. The affected dates span from July 12 at the Area 53 Festival in Austria to August 16 at the Summer Breeze Festival in Germany.

The band expressed their disappointment at not being able to perform for their fans during this period but remains hopeful for a swift recovery. Saxon is looking forward to resuming their tour in time for the Trutnoff Open Air Festival in the Czech Republic on August 23 and the Neuborn Open Air on August 29. Additionally, the band has plans for tours in Spain, France, and the UK later in the year, which are expected to proceed as scheduled.

Fans holding tickets for the cancelled shows, including the Swedish club shows on July 24, 26, and 27, are advised to seek refunds from their point of purchase. Saxon is working closely with promoters to reschedule the other affected dates and has apologized for any inconvenience caused to their loyal fanbase.

Despite the cancellations, Saxon's performance at the Rockharz Festival in Ballenstedt, Germany, on July 2 will go ahead as planned. The band and their management have asked for patience and understanding from fans during this challenging time, as they prioritize Biff Byford's health and recovery.

The legal proceedings against Norwegian athletics coach Gjert Ingebrigtsen have reached a conclusion after the prosecution decided not to appeal the court's decision. Ingebrigtsen, who was acquitted of charges related to the abuse of his son Jakob and his daughter, was sentenced to 15 days of conditional imprisonment for a minor bodily violation against his daughter. The prosecution had initially sought a two-and-a-half-year prison sentence, a demand that was not met by the court.

The prosecution's decision not to appeal was announced following a comprehensive review of the court's judgment. In a statement, the prosecution acknowledged the court's differing assessment of the evidence presented during the trial. This decision marks the end of a contentious legal battle that has drawn significant attention in Norway, given Ingebrigtsen's prominence in the athletics community.

Ingebrigtsen's defense team welcomed the prosecution's decision, viewing it as a vindication of their client's innocence regarding the more serious allegations. Defense attorney John Christian Elden emphasized that the case should never have been brought to trial, citing a lack of evidence to support the accusations. The defense's stance throughout the proceedings has been one of complete denial of any wrongdoing by Ingebrigtsen.

The case has sparked a broader discussion about the boundaries of disciplinary actions within families and the legal system's role in adjudicating such matters. With the prosecution's decision not to appeal, the court's judgment stands as the final word on the matter, allowing all parties involved to move forward. The resolution of this case brings closure to a chapter that has been closely watched by both the sports community and the general public in Norway.