LONDON (AFP) - Doctors have pronounced Iron Maiden lead singer Bruce Dickinson free from cancer, the British heavy metal band has announced on its official website.

Because of the illness, found when the 56-year-old went in for a routine check-up last year, the band will not be touring or playing shows until 2016.

"I would like to thank the fantastic medical team who have been treating me for the last few months, resulting in this amazing outcome," Dickinson said in a statement.

"The encouragement from the global Maiden family meant a great deal to me. Right now, I'm feeling extremely motivated and can't wait to get back to business as usual, as soon as I can!"

Specialists gave Dickinson the all-clear last week after an MRI scan.

Manager Rod Smallwood said that for the next few weeks, the band would focus on putting the finishing touches on its new studio album, and that it would take a break from performing as Dickinson recovered.

"Although Bruce is naturally eager to resume Maiden activities, it will take a while before he is completely back to full strength," Smallwood said.

"Because of this, the band will not be touring or playing any shows until next year.

"We know our fans will understand the situation and, like us, would prefer to wait until Bruce is back to his usual indefatigable levels of fitness before going out on the road."

Formed in 1975, Iron Maiden has sold 80 million albums and won multiple awards, making it one of the most successful heavy metal bands of all time.