...because of burst water pipe

Thousands of fans were left disappointed after Lee Evans cancelled his gig at London’s O2 Arena - because of a burst water pipe.

The problems hit the catering and toilet facilities, so the sold-out audience of 15,500 were told to stay away, just hours before the scheduled start time.

The gig has been hastily rescheduled and will now take place next Monday.

Evans’s agents Off The Kerb said: ‘Lee was extremely disappointed to discover on arrival at the venue that he would be unable to perform, and hopes all ticket holders can attend the rescheduled date.’

The problem was due to the O2’s internal supply, with Thames Water spokesman saying: ‘This was an internal problem at the O2 and something they dealt with independently.’

The venue said in a statement: ‘A major water pipe servicing the venue collapsed leaving the O2 without a serviceable water supply.

‘The O2's engineers and crew worked throughout the day in the hope that the performance could still proceed. However, they were unable to reconnect the water supply and while this does not directly affect the arena space, catering and sanitation services were not able to operate.

‘Regrettably we were left with no other option but to postpone the show.

‘We have been able to rescheduled for Monday 10 October, tickets will be accepted accordingly. We thank you for your understanding.

Published: 3 Oct 2011