Hollywood star Patrick Swayze has been forced to postpone his debut in the West End musical Guys and Dolls because of a chest infection.

Swayze, 53, has missed rehearsals since being struck down by the illness about three weeks ago.

The Dirty Dancing star's debut as gambling man Nathan Detroit has now been postponed by two weeks to July 24.

His scheduled run at London's Piccadilly Theatre has been extended from September 2 to September 23.

Swayze, who stars opposite former Brookside actress Claire Sweeney (Miss Adelaide) in the show, recently admitted he was nervous about facing British critics.

"There's a little fear factor involved. I gather the critics come on the first night you're on so it's kind of like being shot out of a cannon.

"I've only got three weeks of rehearsal and, needless to say, I wish I had more. It's intimidating and exciting," he said.

A spokesman for the musical said: "Claire Sweeney will commence her run starring as Miss Adelaide on schedule on July 10.

"From July 10 to July 22 the role of Nathan Detroit will be played by Andrew Playfoot."

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