ILLNESS has forced the postponement of Bacup St Mary's Players' latest production.

Two of the leading players in "Doctor in the House" have had to cry off late in the day because of health reasons.

It is now hoped to stage the production some time early next year.

Chairman John Cannon said: "It is unfortunate and ironic that the play has had to postponed because of illness and we regret any inconvenience it may cause."

The play was due to staged at the Leisure Hall, Bacup, on November 7, 8 and 9.

Those who have bought tickets will receive a full refund. All patrons are being contacted individually.

Two of the cast, both major players, have had to withdraw because of illness.

Mr Cannon said a stand-in was found for one of the leading players but there was not time to learn the part thoroughly.

When the second person was hit by illness it was decided there was no option but to call the whole thing off at least for the time being.

Mr Cannon said: "It was just because of the shortness of time. we have to book the hall 12 months in advance.

"I went to see if we could just put back a week or two but that was not possible. the earliest date was December 21 and that was no good just before Christmas. We now hope to stage it early next year.

"We can only apologise for any inconvenience this has caused."