STUDIO Theatre in Salisbury has postponed its production of The Thrill of Love, which was due to open at its Ashley Road theatre next week.

The decision was made on Monday in the light of official government advice that public venues like theatres should no longer be visited as part of its strategy to delay the spread of COVID-19.

Studio Theatre chairman Colin Hayman said: "We regret that we are unable to go ahead with this production, but hope to stage it later in the year once things start to get back to normal. Obviously, at this time, we are unable to be definite about alternative dates."

He said it was a huge disappointment for the cast and backstage crew.

"Everyone was ready for opening night," he said. "But we must be mindful of the health and safety of our members and of our audiences, so we are following the government advice."

He said the cost of tickets already purchased would be refunded and that the theatre would be contacting ticket-buyers in the next few days.

• Studio Theatre Stands Up!, the second of Studio's comedy nights, scheduled for April 1, has been cancelled and tickets will be refunded via the online ticketing service.