Ozzy Osbourne has been spotted in public for the first time since being forced to cancel his remaining tour dates due to ill health.

The music icon has suffered a number of health conditions since he was diagnosed with Parkinsons disease four years ago.

Osbourne, 74, has pulled all his live commitments as he recovers from a spinal surgery, but the Black Sabbath rocker put on a brave face and flashed the peace sign when he was snapped out in Santa Monica on Wednesday with the assistance of a walking cane.

Just hours beforehand Osborne announced on Instagram he was too frail to keep touring and apologised for ‘disappointing’ he ‘never would I have imagined that my touring days would have ended this way.'

Osbourne went on to say he was still struggling with health problems seven months on from spinal surgery which saved him from paralysis relating to Parkinson’s disease.

Osbourne said: 'This is probably one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to share with my loyal fans. As you may all know, four years ago, this month, I had a major accident, where I damaged my spine.

'My one and only purpose during this time has been to get back on stage. My singing voice is fine. However, after three operations, stem cell treatments, endless physical therapy sessions, and most recently groundbreaking Cybernics (HAL) Treatment, my body is still physically weak.'

He continued:  'I am honestly humbled by the way you’ve all patiently held onto your tickets for all this time, but in all good conscience, I have now come to the realization that I’m not physically capable of doing my upcoming European/UK tour dates, as I know I couldn’t deal with the travel required. Believe me when I say that the thought of disappointing my fans really FUCKS ME UP, more than you will ever know.' 

'Never would I have imagined that my touring days would have ended this way. My team is currently coming up with ideas for where I will be able to perform without having to travel from city to city and country to country.

'I want to thank my family……my band…….my crew……my longtime friends, @JudasPriest, and of course, my fans for their endless dedication, loyalty, and support, and for giving me the life that I never ever dreamed I would have.’

Osbourne signed off by saying ‘'I love you all… Ticket refunds are available at point of purchase.'

The singer assured fans his vocal cords have not been affected by his progressive health condition.

"My singing voice is fine," said Osbourne. "However, after three operations, stem cell treatments, endless physical therapy sessions, and most recently groundbreaking Cybernics (HAL) Treatment, my body is still physically weak."

[ For support on Parkinson’s disease visit the Parkinson’s UK website. ]