PUB rock legend and Game of Thrones actor Wilko Johnson has been forced to cancel his show at the Llangollen Pavilion on Wednesday. 

The decision comes after bassist Norman Watt-Roy suffered a heart attack on Saturday evening while playing with Johnson at a gig at Hampton Pools in London.

Llangollen Fringe artistic director Neal Thompson said: “Wilko Johnson’s agent informed us on Sunday afternoon that his bassist and very close friend of many years, Norman Watt-Roy, had suffered a heart attack on Saturday evening and had been hospitalised.

“Wilko has therefore regretfully come to the decision to cancel the concert in Llangollen on July 19.

“Following the decision to cancel the concert at Llangollen Pavilion, the directors of Llangollen Fringe would like to send Norman Watt-Roy our best wishes for a speedy recovery.

“Although it is too early to confirm details, we hope they will be able to arrange for supporters in North Wales and the North-West to see Wilko in Llangollen with his band in July next year.

“We know it will be a huge disappointment to fans of Wilko and Norman but also hope that you will join us in offering our best wishes to Norman for his speedy recovery.”

As a result of the cancellation a concert will be held in Llangollen Town Hall on Wednesday which will be free and headlined by The Delta Radio Band, with support from Captain Zed. 

All who have purchased tickets for the Wilko Johnson gig will be refunded the full price of the ticket and be invited to attend the free event. Refunds will be made via Paypal for all internet sales. 

Those who have purchased tickets from outlets in Llangollen can get a full refund by returning the tickets to the box office outside Llangollen Town Hall during the festival. 

Those unable to return the tickets for a refund should get in touch on contact@llangollenfringe.co.uk so that a refund can be arranged.

In a statement supplied by Johnson’s agent, Nigel Kerr, of ABS Agency, said: “Firstly thanks for your understanding and good wishes for Norman’s recovery.

“Wilko never likes to disappoint his fans and looks forward to being able to play Llangollen next year.”