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The first night of Whitney Houston's UK tour has received a mixed response from fans and critics.

Houston took to the stage at Birmingham's LG Arena yesterday evening for her first British concert in 11 years. She had earlier postponed dates in Manchester and Glasgow due to illness.

In a review of the gig published today, BBC entertainment reporter Colin Paterson claimed that the 46-year-old's breathing "was an issue" throughout the show. Houston reportedly told the audience that a cold and the venue's air conditioning were to blame for her struggles.

Paterson continued: "Afterwards some fans told me they had got value for money - but not since I saw Bob Dylan in the late '90s have I been at a gig with so many angry punters."

A writer for Birmingham's Sunday Mercury newspaper claimed that the gig "spiralled into shambolics" as Houston took frequent breaks, prompting members of the audience to boo. Additionally, The Sun wrote that "it was not the performance that fans had been hoping for".

Meanwhile, an audience member told BBC News: "She was good when she was good, but when she was not on form, she was awful."

Another said: "I really enjoyed it no matter what anyone else says. Taking into account that she had a sore throat, she gave 100%. I thought she was brilliant and I'd pay again to see her."

Digital Spy.