Lawrence Heath (organiser of the Music Institute Club in Guildford) has just posted the following to the SEFAN network.

"I have just heard from his agent that Les suffered a heart attack at the week-end. Fortunately it was a relatively mild one which Les mistook as indigestion after returning from a Welsh language field trip(?!). However, he is currently wired up in a cardiology ward in Wales so has had to cancel all gigs for the next few months.

It would be extremely difficult to find a substitute for Les at the best of times, it is impossible at short notice. We have therefore decided to cancel the gig. We will, however, be there on the night if you fancy coming along for a drink and a chat and a song or two. If you have a hidden musical talent this might be your chance to give a performance amongst friends in the intimate surroundings of the Institute. It could be the ideal lead in to the series of singers nights Anna Tabbush has lined up at the venue (see below).

As the Music Institute will still have to cover the cost of hiring the room, advertising, etc. it would be extremely helpful if you could exchange your Les Barker tickets for tickets to other events we have got coming up over the next few month - see http://www.theguildfordinstitute.org.uk - to help us contains the loss.

If you would rather have your money refunded please let me know and I shall arrange to get a cheque to you.

Needless to say we shall have a "Get Well" card with us on Friday for people to sign, wishing Les the speediest of recoveries."

It is intended that, if we have sufficient numbers, a singaround session will take place, or failing that, congregate for socialising around the bar.... so if you want to come anyway, we will be happy to see you.

In the meantime, as Lawrence said, here's wishing the speediest of recoveries to Les.