Horslips gig in Derry latest victim of coronavirus outbreak

The legendary Celtic rock group announced they were postponing the much-anticipated Derry gigs on Friday and Saturday as a precaution in light of the COVID-19 outbreak.

The sold out gigs have been rescheduled for December 4 and December 5.

“We’re gutted that we’ve had to do this," said promoter Jim Nelis. “But we believe that under the circumstances - with COVID-19 beginning to really take hold on the island - this was the socially responsible thing to do. A sold out gig allows no scope for social distancing."

All gigs of over 100 people have been cancelled in the Republic of Ireland and many of those planning to attend are Donegal based so this may not come as much of a surprise though clearly it’s not ideal.

Nelis added: “I’m really hoping that people will hold onto their tickets and use them for the December gigs: but Ticketmaster agree that this is the sensible option and they will give full refunds on request”.

Jim Lockhart of Horslips said: "This has obviously been a difficult decision for Jim Nelis, given that the Assembly hasn’t laid down guidelines but we’re totally behind him. We’ll rock the joint next December when this stuff has passed over.”