BACUP-born tenor Sean Ruane has been forced to cancel his Manchester solo concert after being struck down with illness.

Ruane has been suffering with a heavy cold which has forced him to take the difficult decision of calling off the concert.

It was due to take place at the Comedy Store on Whitworth Street West, Manchester, tomorrow.

A rising star of the opera world, Sean was looking forward to the event which he described as one of his 'highlights of the year'.

A spokesman for the singer said today: "Sean is very disappointed because this would have been his first major show in Manchester but he didn't want to disappoint his audience by giving an under-par performance."

Sean is hoping to reschedule the show later in the year.

Refunds will be given for all those who had tickets. Anyone who has bought tickets through Ticket Master should contact 08705 932 932 for refunds.