Simply ready for Chase gigs

The stage is set on Cannock Chase for a weekend of gala concerts starring Simply Red and Keane.

Tickets for the shows have sold out and some 5,250 fans are expected to attend each night. Simply Red are taking to the stage tonight, while Keane will play tomorrow.

Organisers of the gigs, at the Birches Valley Forest Centre, say 120 contractors have been working since Monday to erect the stage and marquees, and the lighting and sound equipment.

This year's event is the fifth in a series of concerts on the Chase. Previous events have featured Paul Weller, Sugababes, The Zutons and The Feeling.

And site manager Alastair Semple, of the Forestry Commission, promised fans would be in for another treat.

Profits from the shows will be ploughed back into Forestry Commission projects on the Chase.

Tonight's concert kicks off at 7.30pm.