Hit Irish boyband Westlife have announced all UK and Ireland gigs for the months of June and July have been cancelled, including a trip to the Caledonian Stadium in Inverness.
The quartet had been due to grace the stage in the Highland capital on Sunday June 28, however, restrictions in place relating to mass gatherings have forced the cancellation.
The gig was expected to deliver a boost to the Highland economy and to host Inverness Caledonian Thistle Football Club.
Please stay safe! All our love Kian, Mark, Nicky and Shane x pic.twitter.com/10XvMioB23
— Westlife (@westlifemusic) April 22, 2020
A statement issued through the band’s social media accounts reads: “To all our UK fans – it is with great sadness that despite best efforts, our shows scheduled for the UK in June and July must be cancelled.
“We have been monitoring the UK government’s advice surrounding mass gatherings and it is very clear that this is the course we need to take to ensure the protection of our fans, our crew and everyone around us but also to ease pressure on those working tirelessly to fight this virus.
“Those who have been on the Westlife journey with us know how important performing is to us but also know that safety must come first and foremost in delivering a successful tour.
“Our promoters are currently working with their ticketing partners and they will be in touch very soon to process your refund. Please look out for an email from your ticketing agent shortly.
“Please only contact them if you have not been contacted by May 5.”
A high profile performance at Wembley Stadium may still take place in August, however, the band have added that this will only happen “if it is completely safe to do so”.
Westlife added: “In the meantime, we ask everyone to stay home, stay safe and keep playing your part in fighting the spread of this virus.
“Please stay safe!
“All our love Kian, Mark, Nicky and Shane.”
