Customs stop soul legend performing on city stage

The American, who is best known for her 1968 b-side ‘What’, was held up in Manchester Airport by customs official late on Thursday night.

She had been booked to headline the Preston’s Got Soul event at 53 Degrees on Friday evening.

Andrew Kirkham, who runs Preston’s Got Soul, said: “She got all the way to Manchester and then customs decided they weren’t happy and held her for six hours before putting her back on a plane to Nashville.

“I went to the airport late at night and was questionned three times by officials, but they weren’t for listening.”

Mr Kirkham said that custom’s officials said Ms Street did not have the correct work permit.

Joff Hall, 53 Degrees events manager, said: “Obviously we are disappointed Judy Street is unable to perform at the event tonight and that many of us have only been made aware of this today.

“We understand a lot of people where planning to travel a great distance to see her perform, however the event we will still be taking place with a great line-up of DJ’s so we urge people with or without tickets to still head down for a great night of Northern Soul. Anyone who would prefer a refund however, may obtain this from their point of purchase.”

A £5 discount is also available to people who have bought tickets in advance.