VETERAN politician and president of the Stop the War Coalition, Tony Benn, has cancelled an appearance at the Tom Paine 200 Celebrations due to ill health.

VETERAN politician and president of the Stop the War Coalition, Tony Benn, has cancelled an appearance at the Tom Paine 200 Celebrations due to ill health.

Mr Benn had been due to appear with folk singer Roy Bailey for a performance of their show The Writing on the Wall on Sunday October 11 at 3pm in the Carnegie Room, Cage Lane, Thetford.

The show is a history of political dissent including music from Mr Bailey and spoken word sections from Mr Benn.

Roy Bailey will now be joined by songwriter Leon Rosselson, who has written for That Was the Week that Was, Billy Bragg and Dick Gaughan.

The pair will stage a one-off performance of The Liberty Tree, their classic celebration of Thomas Paine in song.

Event organiser, John Weeks, said: “We are extremely sorry to hear of Tony Benn's indisposition and have sent him our very best wishes for a speedy recovery.”

Those who have already bought tickets are being contacted by the box office and offered a refund, although the show will go ahead for those that wish to attend.

Tickets are still available at �5 from the box office on 01842 751975 or at www.tompaine200.org.uk