Paul Weller announces Forest Live date at Sherwood Pines

The Modfather, Paul Weller, is the first headline act named for next year’s Sherwood Pines concerts at Edwinstowe. He will play at the outdoor venue on Saturday, June 29.

It is part of three nights of Forest Live music organised annually by the Forestry Commission.

Paul made his Forest Live debut in 2004 and has played to sell-out crowds ever since, with his most recent appearances being in 2014.

Paul said: “The Forest shows are always great gigs for us and it’s been a while since I last did them so I’m really looking forward to them next year.”

His versatility and creative edge has connected with fans across the generations, making him one of the most significant players of the British music scene over the past four decades.

A cultural icon, his impact, relevance and popularity with the public, fellow musicians and critics alike remains unabated in his milestone 60th year.

To mark his milestone year, Paul released the album True Meanings, which entered the UK charts at number two.

It is his 14th solo album and 26th studio album of his career.

He started out in 1977 with the release of In The City as frontman of The Jam.

The band went on to release five era-defining albums and had hits with The Eton Rifles, Going Underground, That’s Entertainment, Town Called Malice and Beat Surrender.

After splitting in 1982, Paul went on to enjoy further recognition with The Style Council.

He has had subsequent success with numerous solo releases, such as Wild Wood, Wake Up The Nation and Sonik Kicks.

Forest Live is a major outdoor live music series held every summer by Forestry Commission England in seven forests, including Sherwood Forest, to bring the venues to new audiences.

More than 1.75m people have attended a forest gig in the last 18 years.

Last year’s Sherwood Pines dates were headlined by Paul Heaton and Jacqui Abbott, Gary Barlow and UB40 featuring Ali Campbell, Astro and Mickey.

Money raised from ticket sales helps to look after the nation’s forests sustainably, for people to enjoy and wildlife to thrive.

Tickets for the Paul Weller gig, costing £48.50 (plus £5.35 booking fee) go on sale at 9am tomorrow from the Forestry Commission box office. Call 03000 680400 or buy online: www.forestryengland.uk/music