FUNKY popsters The Brand New Heavies have postponed their UK tour, including a scheduled gig in Manchester next month.

The band were set to play Manchester Apollo on December 3 but have now changed the date to April 20. A spokesman said: "Due to unexpected recording commitments in the United States, the Brand New Heavies regret to announce they must move their UK tour dates to April. The band apologises for any inconvenience caused."

Fans who have already bought tickets can either use them for the April date or should return them to the point of purchase for a refund.

Meanwhile, melodic Irish popsters The Cranberries have rescheduled a show at Manchester Arena. They were due to play there on Thursday but will now play Manchester Apollo instead on December 13. The gig costs £20, and fans with tickets for the Arena should swap them at their point of purchase for Apollo tickets. Call the box office on 0161 242 2560.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.