Specials back after sickness

The Specials are hoping to return to the stage tonight for their 30th anniversary tour after being forced to cancel last night's gig but everything depends on the fitness of frontman Terry Hall.

The opening show of a scheduled five-night run at the Brixton Academy was cancelled because doctors advised him to rest for 24 hours after a throat infection.

A band spokesman said they were "optimistic" the remaining shows would go ahead as planned. "The band deeply regret any inconvenience," she added.

The show has been rescheduled for 16 May when tickets from last night will be valid. Ticket holders can get a refund until Monday.