Katie Hopkins's controversial show in Rugby has been cancelled, just days before it was due to take place

Campaigners were due to protest outside the show on Saturday July 19 at the Benn Hall, and had criticised Rugby Borough Council (RBC) for allowing it to go ahead in a council-owned venue.

But today (Tuesday) RBC has announced that it has changed its mind and cancelled the booking - which is part of the outspoken commentator's Batsh*t Bonkers Britain tour - just days before it was due to take part.

RBC said it took advice from police after hearing about the protests and it could not 'guarantee the safety of ticket holders or protesters'.

In a statement, RBC said: “The Benn Hall is primarily a family venue with many community events and activities from musical shows to antiques fairs. We want to support all our communities and their interests with safe, fun activities that everyone can enjoy.

"Since concerns about the Batsh*t Bonkers Britain tour booking were first raised with us, we have taken advice from a variety of partner organisations, including Warwickshire Police, about the context and safety implications of this performance.

“We are aware of a planned protest on the evening of the performance with significant numbers of individuals and organisations indicating their intention to attend.

“Because we are responsible for event safety and cannot guarantee the safety of ticket holders or protesters, we have cancelled the booking. Ticket holders should contact the promoter for information on refunds.

“We understand the depth of feeling this matter has invoked. We will review the Benn Hall booking policy and debate it at a forthcoming meeting of the council.”

As we previously reported, hundreds of people had signed their petition calling for Rugby Borough Council to cancel the gig.

Katei Hopkins has previously appeared at the Benn Hall in May last year.

"I refuse to be cancelled": Crowds turn out to see Katie Hopkins in Rugby

Crowds turned out to see Katie Hopkins outside Rugby’s Benn Hall last night after her controversial show was cancelled at the 11th hour.

Cars beeped their horns as her fans cheered and had selfies outside the Newbold Road venue as Katie declared: “I refuse to be cancelled.”

Rugby Borough Council pulled the plug on her Batsh*t Bonkers Britain date just days before the show was due to take place.

Campaigners were due to protest outside the venue and had criticised Rugby Borough Council (RBC) for allowing it to go ahead in a council-owned venue.

RBC said it took advice from police after hearing about the protests and it could not 'guarantee the safety of ticket holders or protesters'.