Major drive-in concert featuring Dizzee Rascal, Beverly Knight and Sigala cancelled over virus fears

A UK-wide series of drive-in concerts set to feature performances from Dizzee Rascal, Sigala, Beverley Knight and more has been cancelled over the risk of "localised lockdowns". 

The Utilita Live From The Drive-In was due to tour across the country this summer, billed as a reimagining of the live music experience during a time of social distancing. 

All 12 dates have now been scrapped, just weeks before they were scheduled to begin.

In a statement, Live Nation said: "The Live From Drive In concert series will no longer proceed as planned this summer.

“We received huge support from artists, the live music production contractors, our headline sponsor Utilita along with our other partners and of course you, the fans.

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“However the latest developments regarding localised lockdowns mean it has become impossible for us to continue the series with any confidence.”

Concert-goers would have been able to watch from their vehicles or stand outside them in allocated spaces, or sit in fold-out chairs - though attendees were banned from bringing umbrellas or their own food. 

Other performers booked for the show were Ash, Gary Numan, Jack Savoretti, Lightning Seeds, Nathan Dawe, Sheku and Cream Classical Ibiza.

Live Nation confirmed refunds would be “issued directly to all ticket holders within the next seven days”.

Several other socially distanced music events are still set to take place in the UK this summer, including Suffolk's Red Rooster Festival, Unlocked in Nothern Ireland and a series of open air gigs at Newcastles's Virgin Money Unity Arena in August/Setpember.

Article image: Live Nation