Washington, Jan 14 : A criminal trial of former US Democratic presidential contender John Edwards has been delayed as he has ben diagnosed with a heart problem that requires medical attention.

Judge Catherine Eagles allowed the delay of the trial after receiving two letters from Edwards’ cardiologist detailing the nature of the heart trouble.

The trial is now scheduled to begin on March 26, but might be delayed even further. Edwards’ lawyers had argued that their client has been unable to prepare for trial in the past month.

Edwards is scheduled to undergo surgery next month for his undisclosed heart ailment. He appeared “a little pale and gaunt” during a brief interaction inside the courthouse, ABC News reports.

Edwards was allegedly involved in an illegal scheme of siphoning off hundreds of thousands of dollars from two wealthy supporters to help support his pregnant mistress Rielle Hunter during the 2008 presidential campaign.

Prosecutors allege those payments were intended to influence the election, and violated US campaign laws.

Edwards said he is innocent of all the charges levelled against him. (ANI)