`Trainspotting' author cancels Dunedin visit

The author of cult novel Trainspotting, Irvine Welsh, has cancelled a trip to Dunedin for a Dunedin Writers and Readers Festival event in September.

Festival programme director Claire Finlayson confirmed yesterday he was not able to come because the date clashed with a family funeral in the United Kingdom.

She said she hoped he would be able to come at a later date.

''We're all feeling a bit winded by the news, but he's as gutted as we are. He's hoping he may be able to come out another time, so we'll just have to hold on to that prospect.''

People who bought tickets to the Dunedin event in-store could bring back their ticket for a full refund. Internet refunds would be automatic.

Dunedin will still host Scottish author Shaun Bythell on September 2.