Jackson is 'recovering' from flu that stopped show

THE POP superstar Michael Jackson is recovering from his bout of flu and could be performing again by Wednesday, doctors said last night.

The news was music to the ears of fans who maintained a vigil outside the Dorchester hotel in central London, where the 33-year- old multi-millionaire performer and his entourage are staying during his British tour.

Scores of young fans had besieged the Dorchester all day for news of their hero. They screamed at the news, and some even wept. Earlier, the crowd was entertained by a group of dancing and miming Jackson impersonators, the Dangerous Boys.

On Saturday night, the real Jackson had to withdraw at the last minute from a concert at Wembley Stadium as 72,000 fans awaited his arrival on stage. They have been advised to keep their tickets for news of a refund or a rescheduled date.

In a message from his hotel, Jackson said: 'It is the worst thing in the world for me to let my fans down. Your understanding and support is the greatest medicine any doctor could administer. I love you all.'

His spokesman, Bob Jones, said the star was 'devastated' at having to cancel a concert for only the second time in a 24-year career. 'He has these flu-type symptoms,' he said.

In a statement yesterday, Jackson's doctors said: 'He looks much better today and will continue his rest . . . with his current rate of improvement we anticipate he will perform (in Cardiff) on Wednesday.'