Lytham Festival bosses move to reassure ticket holders there are no plans to cancel fastest-selling event with Diana Ross and Lionel Richie on the Green after plug is pulled on Glastonbury 2021

A statement reassuring the thousands of ticket holders looking forward to five nights of live music from superstar headliners Lionel Richie, Lewis Capaldi, Duran Duran, Diana Ross and Snow Patrol has been released on the festival's Twitter page following the decision by Glastonbury organisers Michael and Emily Eavis to call a day on Glastonbury for the second year running.

Peter Taylor and Dan Cuffe, managing directors of Cuffe and Taylor and founders of Lytham Festival said they were saddened by the news that Glastonbury would not return in 2021 but stressed the decision would not have a bearing on preparations for the events on the Green opening on Wednesday June 30.

In a joint statement they said the logistics and construction for Lytham Festival, which requires just seven days set up, means they were in a position to be more 'nimble and reactive' in light of the climate and ongoing Covid restrictions.

It read: "We're currently waiting for the Government to give us guidance on when we can reopen and hold our festival safely.

"We're ready to put into place whatever protocols are asked of us.

"What we can say is that we are doing everything in our power to ensure 2021 goes ahead and we will communicate directly with our audiences if anything changes.

"Despite the negativity in the news and social media, the 2021 festival has sold more tickets at this point than ever before, so it is clear the vast majority of our audience want the festival to take place.

"Please stick with us,stay positive and we'll see you on the Green in the summer. Any changes you'll hear from us first."

Motown legend Ross will open as the headline act in the main proms arena on Wednesday June 30. The festival is held over five nights closing on Sunday July 4.

Joining Ross on the all star billing is British music icons, 80s new wave band Duran Duran, fronted by Simon Le Bon.

Lionel Richie, Lewis Capaldi and Snow Patrol who had all confirmed for 2020, complete the programme , with support from disco star Gloria Gaynor, Irish rock band Kodaline, RnB band TLC, singer-songwriter Jack Savoretti, Jade Bird and blues/rock and roll artist Luke La Volpe.

The box office has enjoyed its biggest ever early sales on tickets. For further ticket information visit www.lythamfestival.comIt is thanks to our loyal readers that we can continue to provide the trusted news, analysis and insight that matters to you. For unlimited access to our unrivalled local reporting, you can take out a subscription here and help support the work of our dedicated team of reporters.

Support us and become a subscriber today. Enjoy unlimited access to local news, the latest football stories and new puzzles every day. With a digital subscription, you can see fewer ads, enjoy faster load times, and get access to exclusive newsletters and content. Click here to subscribe.