Sir Elton John will play three UK shows next summer.

The 'Rocket Man' hitmaker has confirmed he will perform one-off gigs at Leigh Sports Village in Manchester, Nottingham's Capital FM arena, and Weston Homes Community Stadium in Colchester, Essex, in June 2014.

Speaking to the Bolton News newspaper, Elton said: ''I have been all around the world and I truly enjoy playing my music for fans everywhere I can, but I do so look forward to coming back home to England, especially every summer when I get to perform in places I have never played before.''

The performances will include number one hits and classic tracks from his outstanding 40-year career, including songs from his recent album 'The Diving Board'.

Meanwhile, Elton recently admitted that he would be cutting down on the amount of shows he does from now on as he'd rather spend time with his husband David Furnish and their two children, Zachary, two, and nine-month-old son Elijah.

He said previously: ''The time has come in my life when I will definitely cut back on shows so I have more time with my family.

''That's a conscious decision. I know I'm addicted to playing. I'm addicted to working. I'm addicted to touring. I'm addicted to everything.''

Tickets for the UK shows will go on sale on Friday 8 November.