The Verve have been forced to cancel an appearance at a festival tonight (July 16th) because lead singer Richard Ashcroft has been taken ill.

Ashcroft is suffering from severe pharyngitis and a chest infection and has been advised to rest by doctors.

The band had been due to perform at the Italia Wave Festival in Livorno later.

In a statement on their website, the band said: “The Verve wish to apologise to any fans who have bought tickets and hope to be playing again soon".

(by Jason Gregory)