THE BBC’s World Affairs Editor John Simpson has cancelled a talk about his new novel.

Mr Simpson, who lives in Oxford, has reported for the broadcaster from trouble spots around the globe.

He was due to speak on Monday at the Newman Rooms in St Aldate’s but Blackwell’s, which organised the sold-out event, said it was cancelled due to ‘unforeseen cirumcumstances’.

A member of staff said: “Mr Simpson is extremely busy and there may have been a clash in his schedule - we’re not sure yet if the talk can be rearranged.”

Mr Simpson’s novel, Moscow, Midnight, features cantankerous journalist Jon Swift who finds himself in danger when his MP friend is found dead.