LONDON, (Reuters) – R&B singer Chris Brown has  postponed his tour to Britain after being denied a visa to enter  the country in a decision linked to his sentence for assaulting  then-girlfriend Rihanna 16 months ago.

The 21-year-old, whose hits include “Run It!” and “Kiss  Kiss”, was sentenced in August 2009 to five years probation,  ordered to perform 180 days of community service and attend  domestic abuse counselling.

The tour was due to have started in Glasgow, Scotland, tomorrow, followed by gigs in Birmingham, Manchester and London  on Thursday, Friday and Sunday respectively.

It was postponed “due to unforeseen circumstances”,  according to the website promoting the tour. Fans were advised  to hold on to their tickets with the possibility of the dates  being re-arranged.

Britain’s Home Office said: “We reserve the right to refuse  entry to the UK to anyone guilty of a serious criminal offence.  Public safety is one of our primary concerns. Each application  to enter the UK is considered on its individual merits.”

Brown has the right to appeal.