Fatboy Slim cancels hometown appearance

BRIGHTON, England, June 21 (UPI) -- British disc jockey Fatboy Slim has canceled a popular annual beach concert in his home town of Brighton, an official says.

David Smith, cabinet member for culture and tourism for the city of Brighton and Hove, confirmed the "Better Living Through Chemistry" performer would not hold the Big Beach Boutique 5, which had been scheduled for Sept. 4-5, the BBC reported Saturday.

Smith expressed disappointment regarding the disc jockey's decision as last year's event was attended by 20,000 people.

The beach concert was the center of chaos its first year, 2002, when 250,000 people showed up instead of the 60,000 expected, the BBC said.

No reason was reported for the cancellation, but Fatboy Slim reportedly spent time in a rehabilitation site this year battling alcohol addiction.

Fatboy Slim, whose real name is Norman Cook, was born in Brighton. He resides in Hove with his wife, radio presenter Zoe Ball, and their son Woody.