Dame Shirley Bassey has given a rare health update after undergoing hand surgery in March. The 89-year-old singer, known for hits like 'Goldfinger' and 'Diamonds Are Forever', revealed she had been in so much pain that she struggled to reply to fan mail.
In a photo shared on Instagram, Dame Shirley smiled and showed her bandaged hand while dining at a restaurant in Madrid. She wrote: 'Hello Everybody! I’m currently visiting Spain and am in one of Madrid’s famous restaurants, where they have given me a chair with my name on it! So very cool.'
She added: 'Thank you so much for asking how my hand is after the operation – it’s coming along slowly. I still find it difficult to write, and eating with my left hand, which is not easy, but helps with my diet! I’m now off to spend time with my son and his family. Sending you lots of love and Best Wishes. Dame Shirley.'
Fans responded warmly, with one commenting: 'Ah I’m so glad to see you safe and well. Looking spectacular as always.' Another wrote: 'There should be a THRONE in every major city in the world just for YOU Dame Shirley.'
Earlier this year, Dame Shirley celebrated 70 years in the music industry. In a previous Instagram post, she reflected: 'It has been an honour to sing and entertain my fans for over 70 years. Across seven decades (wow!), I have had the privilege to meet many of you, and receive fan mail from all around the world!'
However, she also apologised to fans, explaining that due to her upcoming hand surgery, she would no longer be able to reply to fan mail and requested that they avoid sending vinyls, personal items, or photographs, as they could not be returned.
