A business festival has been cancelled just days before it was due to go ahead.

The Worcestershire Festival of Business was due to take place at Sixways Stadium, home of Worcester Warriors, this Thursday.

However, organisers have now confirmed that the venue has cancelled their booking just 24 hours before they were due to start setting up.

Announcing the news on Twitter, organisers said: "The Worcestershire Festival of Business is cancelled!

"Sadly Sixways Stadium have cancelled our booking just 24 hours before we were due to be starting set up!

"This is despite reassurances over several weeks that the event could run as planned!"

Scores of businesses were set to feature at the festival, now in its eighth year.

The event gives local entrepreneurs a chance to network, as well as market and showcase their brand.

Many businesses who were scheduled to attend have shown support for the organisers following the cancellation.

A spokesperson for T and R Home Improvements said: "Absolutely gutted about this news, as I was going to do another stand reveal tonight.

Which venues are on the shortlist for October? Or is it top secret?"

To which the festival organisers responded: "Thank you.

"We are devastated but will focus on the future.

"We have a number in mind but the sheer size of the event means options are limited.

"Venue options include Worcestershire CCC and Worcester Racecourse but we have others to speak with."

Other businesses to show support on social media include Herefordshire and Worcestershire Group Training Association.

A tweet read: "So sorry to hear this, we will see you very soon."

Meanwhile, Worcester-based firm Real World Consultancy tweeted: "Ah no! Such a shame so sorry to hear this."