The LIVE 8 extravaganza has been dealt a devastating blow - French authorities are refusing to allow the Paris concert to take place at the Eiffel Tower.

Plans were already in place for the gig, which includes Jamiroquai and YOUSSOU N'DOUR in the line-up, to kick off in front of the legendary landmark.

But French organisers have slammed SIR Bob Geldof for causing a "logistical nightmare", insisting "security issues" make it is impossible to stage the extravaganza at Tower.

However, the event's promoter HARVEY GOLDSMITH is undeterred, and is looking into using the opulent Palace of Versailles - once the home of the ostentatious French monarchy.

He says, "There is still a possibility we will be able to use the Palace of Versailles, which has a capacity of 30,000. Between ourselves and the police we will make the final decision on Tuesday (07JUN05)."

But Goldsmith's hopes may be met with hostility once again, as a spokesman for the historic site fumes, "The palace is about French history. It is not a pop music venue."

05/06/2005 14:35