A TALK by former Wales rugby captain Gareth Thomas at Bournemouth University has been cancelled.

The free event, which was due to take place this evening at the university’s Talbot Campus, has been called off just seven hours before was due to be held.

A message posted the event’s Eventbrite page said “Due to unforeseen circumstances, this evening's event; Gareth Thomas: Tackling Stigma has been cancelled.

“There are currently no plans to reschedule but we will let you know if this changes. We apologise for the inconvenience and disappointment this may have caused, but please do keep checking Bournemouth University's website for other events that may be of interest to you.”

Gareth Thomas, who came out as gay in December 2009, won 100 caps for his country and is the second highest Wales try scorer behind Shane Williams

In 2010, he was voted the most influential gay person in the UK in The Independent on Sunday Pink List and received Stonewall’s Hero of the Year award.

Gareth Thomas, nicknamed ‘Alfie’, was to reflect on his experiences of being the first openly gay professional rugby player in the international game, as well as his decision to be open about his sexuality and the reaction from those around him.