The latest on shopping, restaurant news and more Subscribe Thank you for subscribing We have more newsletters Show me See our privacy notice Invalid Email

A Birmingham tribute night dedicated to The Smiths has been axed - after organisers grew tired of defending Morrissey's controversial political views .

The Saturday night Panic On the Streets of Birmingham bash bit the dust amid dwindling crowds at its Eden Bar home in Sherlock Street.

Organisers said the venue could "no longer sustain" the booking - but also admitted that trying to defend the star's comments and beliefs had become "tedious".

They wrote on Facebook: "Unfortunately "Panic On The Streets Of Birmingham" at the fabulous Eden Bar has come to an end due to the drop in numbers over the past 12 months.

"The venue as a business can no longer sustain holding our event in the marquee on their busiest night of the week , which we fully understand.

"The crowds have dwindled, but for us, to get embroiled in all of the politics and attempting to defend Morrissey's comments or beliefs has become so tedious, when ultimately our event was about a disco fan club night, celebrating his music and embracing his unique poetry and lyrical artistry."

Last month, it was reported that Morrissey had reaffirmed his support for the far-right, anti-Islam party, For Britain, and suggested Nigel Farage “would make a good prime minister”.

The star - who denies he is racist - spoke out after facing criticism for wearing a party badge on a US TV show.

And in May, posters for his latest album were removed from Merseyrail stations in the north-west after a commuter complained.

Merseyrail apologised and said the posters did not reflect its "values".

Last month, organisers of the Birmingham bash posted a lengthy update on their Facebook page saying their night attracted some of the most "warm, friendly, kind, happy, unique, passionate and humorous we could have wished for".

In their latest statement, they said: "We've made some amazing friends for life along the way and we're truly grateful for this.

"A huge thank you to everyone who has attended and travelled from near and far. It's everyone of you that made each night feel special.

"We look forward to keeping in touch with everyone we've met over the years and maybe we can use this opportunity as a bit of breathing space and let the dust settle (if it ever does).

"We may rekindle the flame in the future and find a suitable venue (maybe once or twice a year) but for now all we can do is say a big massive thank you to everyone who's supported the night. It's been a blast."

Many fans took to social media to express their sadness at the news.

On Facebook, Danny Grainger said: "Me and my dad came to the first one it was brilliant great memories. I also met an ex-girlfriend at one of these nights, hope you have some good photos."

John Keir commented: "Great disco and has been a brilliant after-show following the Brum gigs. A real shame. Thanks for some great nights."