The world’s favourite songwriting misanthrope, Leonard Cohen, has cancelled his two performances at the 2012 Hop Farm Festival.

Due to “unforeseen circumstances” which Cohen’s management have yet to adequately explain, the two shows scheduled to take place as part of the festival in Kent on September 8 and 9 will instead move to Wembley Arena.

Disappointed ticketholders for the Hop Farm concerts are advised to contact their point of sale for a refund; ticketholders will also be invited to an exclusive pre-sale to purchase tickets for the Wembley shows with “first access to the best seats in the house”.

“The decision was completely out of our hands,” said a Hop Farm spokesman. “We were informed this morning via a joint press release from Leonard Cohen’s agent and the promoter that they had made the decision to move the venue from the Hop Farm up to Wembley. Unfortunately we haven’t been given any information as to why.

“We are really disappointed. We were very much looking forward to welcoming Leonard to Kent.”