Alesha Dixon and boyband 5ive have pulled out of performances pro-Brexit music concert BPop Live, saying they were not aware it was a political concert when they agreed to play.

UKIP leader and Pro-Brexit campaigner Nigel Farage is due to speak at the event, which will take place on 19 June at the NEC in Birmingham and which is funded by the Leave.EU campaign group.

A spokesperson for Alesha Dixon stated that: “When Alesha was approached to perform at this event it was on the understanding that this was a multi artist pop concert in a fantastic venue in the heart of the UK and Alesha would be there purely as an entertainer.

“It has now come to light that this is more of a political rally with entertainment included and we have decided to withdraw Alesha from the event.

“We wish to apologise to any fans who may have purchased tickets for this event. I would like to make it clear that Alesha has no political allegiances either way on this issue.”

The concert, which describes itself as “the biggest political rally in modern British history”, also saw previous headliners Sigma pull out of the event.

In a statement to The Mirror, a 5ive representative said: “When Rich and Scott agreed to play the event they understood that it was a pop concert funded by one of the Brexit organisations and not a political rally.

“As it has come to light that this is more a political rally with entertainment included they have both decided to cancel their involvement.”