Hundreds of fans have been left disappointed after a huge main act dropped out of a major festival in Norwich.

Ali Campbell, from reggae-pop band UB40, was due to be the headline act at the Uptown Festival in Earlham Park but has been taken ill.

A social media post was published on the act's Instagram account earlier today.

The statement read: "We are sorry to announce that UB40 featuring Ali Campbell will be unable to perform today in Norwich.

"Ali was this morning unexpectedly taken ill and as a result cannot travel to a show that he was so looking forward to perform at.

"Ali is expected to make a full recovery and he and the band look forward to continuing with his Endless Summer World Tour 2024."

UB40 star Ali CampbellUB40 star Ali Campbell (Image: PA)

One person claimed it was a "massive con" after paying £60 for a VIP ticket to see UB40 perform at 8.30pm, having not been informed on entry of the no-show.

READ MORE: Uptown Festival, Earlham Park Norwich: All you need to know

Another person asked: "Will we get a refund if we haven't attended because of this?"

UB40 has had more than 50 singles in the UK Singles Chart, selling more than 70 million records worldwide.

Other acts at the Uptown Festival include Earth, Wind & Fire Experience featuring Al McKay Allstars, The Christians, Craig Charles Funk & Soul Club and Martin Kemp: Back to the 80s DJ Live.

General admission tickets cost £43 for adults and £16.80 for children, with VIP tickets at £60.

It is not yet known whether fans will be refunded.