A CELEBRATORY VIP reception to mark World Superbike Champion Carl Fogarty's record-breaking fourth title success has been cancelled because of his busy schedule.

About 1,000 fans, business and council leaders were expected to attend the high profile event on November 3 at King George's Hall, Blackburn.

Ticket holders were promised a chance to ask Carl about his record-breaking season and see a replica of his race bike when the Blackburn with Darwen Council-supported reception was announced two weeks ago.

The sporting star's wife, Michaela, explained that it was impossible for Carl to make a definite confirmation because of his prior commitments, but he would be speaking to the council to discuss alternatives in the near future.

She added: "Carl didn't want to cause any disappointment by having to cancel at the last minute."

Organiser Alf Wright said: "It is with regret that Carl has had to turn down our invitation to hold a tribute night to celebrate his record-breaking fourth World Superbike Championship success, due to the heavy demand on his time by Ducati and his sponsors. We could have gone ahead and sold tickets for the event, but if Carl was called upon at the last minute and was unable to attend, it would only disappoint his many fans who had travelled from around the UK to meet him."

Phil Watson, chief executive of Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council, added: "I am sorry that this event has had to be cancelled but I fully understand the circumstances.

"I will be writing to Carl in the near future to see how the council can recognise his magnificent achievement, subject to his own wishes and commitments."

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