Joanna Riding (second left) appeared in the Witches of Eastwick

Her last performance will be on 8 December, and the lead role will be taken by West End veteran Joanna Riding from 10 December.

Sir Cameron Mackintosh, the show's producer said it was with great regret McCutcheon was leaving early but praised her performances.

Her health problems have been blamed on a virus she picked up before the musical opened at the Royal National Theatre in March.

Break

She was forced to miss many performances and her role was often understudied to critical acclaim by 18-year-old Alexandra Jay.

When the production transferred to the Theatre Royal, McCutcheon continued to sit out a number of performances.

McCutcheon's last performance will be on 8 December

She is now expected to take an extended break from acting

Sir Cameron said: "We have agreed to replace Martine from 10 December and subject to her health and her doctor's advice she will undertake as many of her scheduled performances as she can until that date."

Joanna Riding has previously starred in Guys and Dolls, Carousel and The Witches Of Eastwick.

Sir Cameron said ticket holders who had specifically booked to see McCutcheon in the role could apply for a full refund on their tickets before 30 November.