Sage concert halted after performers taken ill

A major concert at the Sage Gateshead last night, involving choirs from across the North East, had to be suspended before the end after three performers were taken ill.

Paramedics were called to the venue and gave medical treatment to all three people. The Sage is investigating the incident but has said that heat, dehydration and tiredness could all have been factors.

One audience members was also taken ill but this is thought to be due to a separate, pre-existing medical condition.

26 choirs were taking part in what was called a 'Choral Spectacular'. Around 900 travelled to the Sage to see the performance.

In a statement, a spokesman from the Sage said the incident was "concerning and deeply regrettable".

"We apologise to both the people taken ill and to everybody who along to the performance", he added.