Strictly Come Dancing favourites Karen Hauer and Gorka Marquez delivered a devastating blow to fans mere moments before they were expected to step into the spotlight. The professional dance duo, currently delighting audiences with their tour, faced the harrowing task of announcing a sudden cancellation right before their Thursday night performance.

Set to dazzle at Cheltenham's iconic Town Hall, Karen and Gorka broke the news through a heartfelt statement, expressing their intense regret over the decision that left many "upset and disappointed." They declared: "We are so upset to have the curtain pulled down on tonight's show."

Troubles erupted backstage as the pair grappled with "technical difficulties" threatening safety, pushing them to attempt everything within their power to resolve the issues. They continued: "We have been in the venue all afternoon with technical difficulties which have posed real safety concerns and have tried everything we can to be able to go on stage tonight."

Putting the well-being of their company first and lamenting the circumstances beyond their control, the dancers emphasised: "Of course the safety of our company comes first and this decision is beyond our control. We hope to see you very soon. The venue will be in touch with ticket holders." The duo signed off with equal measures of sorrow and hope: "We are as disappointed as you are. K and G", reports The Mirror.

Disheartened attendees expressed their frustrations online. A disgruntled fan ranted: "GUTTED. Got to the theatre to see Speakeasy and it's been cancelled last minute! ! ! My birthday ruined."

Echoing the sentiment, another stated: "Us too got the email when we were at the pizza restaurant."

The dancing duo, currently performing in Ipswich's Regent theatre as part of their Speakeasy tour, have previously been under fire after Karen pulled out of the meet and greet sessions earlier this month.

Disgruntled fans received emails explaining that "due to scheduling difficulties", Karen would not be attending the pre-show events.

One particular email shared by a fan read: "Due to scheduling difficulties, Karen Hauer is unable to participate in the Speakeasy Meet and Greet, but Gorka Marquez will be your host for this exclusive and up close and personal experience."

This has led to some attendees demanding partial refunds, especially since they had paid £84.37 (£75.00 plus booking fees) on top of the show ticket for an "exclusive chance to make your Speakeasy experience something you will never forget!".

The discontent spread across social media as fans expressed their frustration at missing out on meeting both Strictly stars. Adding to the disappointment, Karen also missed a meet and greet in York, despite sharing photos of herself enjoying the city that same day, including a visit to a café known for its edible coffee cups.

Karen and Gorka were spotted making the most of the summer weather, with a fellow cast member sharing a behind-the-scenes video of Karen lounging on a prop box before the venue filled up.

The series is set to conclude with a grand West End gala performance at the renowned Adelphi Theatre in London on April 15.