Heavy rockers Saxon have postponed an upcoming gig in England to allow frontman Biff Byford to recover from a throat infection.
The group was scheduled to perform in Hatfield for the Herfordshire Student's Union on 8 June (12) but the gig has been rescheduled to avoid jeopardising Byford's voice ahead of the band's slot at the Download Festival at Donington Park the following morning (09Jun12).
A statement from Byford reads, "We are in the middle of our studio work and recording right now some vocals. I have got a throat infection and it hurts quite a bit.
"We have made the decision to postpone the show in Hatfield into September/October (12). It would be too risky to play an hour and 45 minutes and drive after the show up to Donington as we are on quite early and this could be a serious damage to my voice. Because of this, we are thinking that we shouldn't risk the Download appearance and album.
"We are very sorry to cause you problems with travel and hotels but hopefully letting you know early is better than finding out the night before. It's not cancelled! We will let you know a new date (as soon as possible) and maybe we (will) play you a couple of new songs. I hope you all understand and have a great time at Donington!"