CBC Radio star Stuart McLean has called off his annual Vinyl Cafe Christmas Tour to begin treatment for melanoma.

McLean has toured with the CBC radio show since 1998, says the show's website.

“t feels like I invited everyone to dinner and am calling to say the party's off. I don't know what to say except, I am sorry,” McLean wrote.

He was to play Centennial Hall in downtown London on Dec. 17-18, but those dates are among the cancelled appearances. Details are expected soon.

London-based Jones Entertainment Group represents McLean and The Vinyl Cafe for speeches, conferences and concerts. London concert promoter Don Jones is a longtime friend and entertainment business ally of McLean's.

The star also made the announcement about his cancer Saturday on his Facebook page and on the radio show's website.

McLean has published numerous books of short stories based on the radio program, and is an officer of the Order of Canada.

He said he will begin cancer therapy next week.

McLean says his doctor expects the treatment to be successful.