COMEDIAN Russell Brand has cancelled the latest leg of his world tour tonight in Southend due to illness.

Grays-born Brand was set to play the third of five shows at the Cliffs Pavilion before he was struck down with what is thought to be a throat related illness.

The show has been re-scheduled for April 7, following scheduled shows on March 10 and 11 at the Cliffs.

A statement from the Cliffs Pavilion read: “Unfortunately due to ill health this evening's Russell Brand - Messiah Complex has been postponed.

“However we are delighted to have been able to re-schedule his appearance for Monday April 7.

“If you have tickets they will remain valid for the new date and you need do nothing further.”