Maidstone's Hazlitt Theatre has cancelled a much-anticipated show as it clashes with England's crucial World Cup semi-final against Croatia.

The 'Tonight's the Night' choir showcase was initially scheduled for tomorrow evening, but a decision has instead been made to push it back until the autumn as the football continues to whip the nation into a frenzy.

Theatre bosses and performers claimed the potential noise emanating from nearby venues screening the game would be too much of a distraction for the show to go ahead.

A statement from the theatre said: "Due to the success of England's football team the Hazlitt management and choir members have decided to postpone the showcase on Wednesday, July 11.

"The Hazlitt Theatre sits in amongst several bars and clubs that will be showing the game and any possible noise will disrupt the performance.

"We want to give our fabulous choir every chance to produce an excellent performance therefore, the show will be postponed till September with a date to be confirmed as soon as possible.

"The vote to postpone from the members was overwhelming and we would like to thank them for being accepting of the situation and working with us.

"Come on England!"