Singer Sam Smith was forced to cancel their Manchester show just as it had begun after a problem with their voice.

The ‘Unholy’ singer was playing at Manchester’s AO Arena on Wednesday night before they stopped the show.

Concertgoers were asked to return to the foyer as rumours circulated on social media about what had happened to the star.

Sam has since released a statement on why they paused the show.

They said: “Dearest sailors, I don't know what to say honestly. I fought off a virus a few weeks ago and since then we have travelled across Europe and had such incredible shows.

The Bolton News: Sam Smith

"Today in soundcheck I felt fine and was so excited to give Manchester an amazing show tonight, with a special surprise at the end.

"During my third song, I noticed something wrong with my voice. I prayed it was just my voice waking up for the show but into the fourth song I could feel something was really wrong.

"I came off stage and have tried everything to get my voice back in gear, but it won't. I am honestly heartbroken I couldn't finish the show tonight for you all. I love you all. I'm sorry I'm sorry I'm sorry x.”

The Glasgow show is still to go ahead despite being pushed back.

Some fans were left ‘fuming’ after the cancellation just three songs in and fans reported the lights going off after the show stopped, leaving them in darkness over what had happened.