American Hip-Hop trio De La Soul, who were scheduled to perform at Stockton Weekender on Sat 27 July, have cancelled a string of dates in the UK. 

Despite confirming their appearance only last week, Weekender organisers Tees Music Alliance (TMA) have sadly been informed by De La Soul’s UK agent that due to a rearranged schedule in the USA, the band now won’t be travelling to the U.K. in time to play Stockton Weekender.  

The news comes as a disappointment to the band and affects two other English festivals, who were still to announce the bands appearance, – and although De La Soul hope to return to play those affected festivals another year; it won’t be happening in 2013. 

TMA Director Paul Burns commented “This is very disappointing for Stockton Weekender and ticket holders. We will be working hard to replace De La Soul with another top quality act to support Primal Scream.” 

Paul continued, “We're incredibly disappointed by the news - and it's not the way we like to operate - but this kind of situation is beyond our control.” 

“But we’re keeping positive as we still have amazing headliners in Primal Scream and Dexys, and we'll have some more top acts to announce shortly.” 

Although the line-up of the festival can be subject to change, as a goodwill gesture, anyone who has bought tickets specifically to see De La Soul – i.e. Saturday only tickets bought between the 22nd and 26th February can request a full refund. 

Tickets are on sale now Here  and selling very fast. Early Bird prices are £25 a day, £35 for the weekend and £70 for camping. Ticket prices will increase in price from 1 May onwards. 

As in previous years each adult ticket entitles the holder to 2 free Under 14s tickets.