AN annual Christmas concert that usually attracted more than 1,200 people to the former Derby Playhouse has had to change venue.

The Salvation Army has had to downsize the event at short notice after a mix-up with the owners of Derby Theatre.

The organisation thought it had a verbal agreement with Derby Live to hold the event on Sunday, December 13.

But the theatre says that no official booking has been made and it needs to prepare for its first Christmas show since re-opening.

The event will instead be held at the Salvation Army Hall, in Osmaston Road – a much smaller venue – meaning only 200 people will be able to attend.

Major Ted Benneyworth, from the Salvation Army, said: "In recent years the concert has been held at the Derby Playhouse with two sittings to a full house. Last year we had to move to the Robert Ludlam Theatre, which we filled for both concerts with 250 people, because the Derby Playhouse was closed.

"We thought we had a verbal agreement to return to the old Playhouse this year but we have been told it cannot accommodate us. We have received numerous inquiries as to what is happening with regard to this event. At this late stage it is impossible to arrange a venue the same size as the old Playhouse."

The Carols for All concert has been held in Derby for more than 25 years and the proceeds, typically around £3,000, have gone to the Mayor's charities.

Maj Benneyworth said admission is free to the December 13 event, although guests are asked for a donation to the cause, but as the venue can only hold 200 people, tickets will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.

But there is brighter news for next year. "We have been assured that the Playhouse will be available to us next year when normal service resumes," said Maj Benneyworth.

He said because the venue is designed for worship rather than performance, they could only host one show.

Peter Ireson, Derby Live director, said it looked into hosting the concert but getting the theatre back open for its debut Christmas show, The Snow Queen, was the priority.

He said: " We did investigate whether it would be possible to stage their event. But the enormous task of getting the theatre back open meant that we did not have the resources available to host the event."

To reserve a ticket for Carols for All, call Derby 291694 or Derby 513948.