FOR any Tom Grennan fan who has been following him since the start, his gig at the picturesque Delamere Forest is one you wouldn’t want to miss - with his new album released the same day.

Thousands of people flocked to woodland near Northwich to hear the singer-songwriter take to the outdoor stage - performing as part of Forestry England’s ‘Forest Live’ concert series - donned with picnic bags, fold-up camping chairs and bucket hats.

Grennan’s new album, ‘What Ifs and Maybes’, had been released earlier that day (June 16) so there was a real buzz in the air, with people excited to help the BRIT Award-nominated star celebrate the momentous occasion. 

And there was a huge mix of ages too, with generations of families joining in the fun. 

But before the main event (and let me tell you, Grennan made quite the entrance), support Liv Dawson and special guest Matilda Mann entertained the crowds, with some easy-listening tunes to slowly warm everyone up.

Chester and District Standard:

The audience was incredibly supportive towards the pair and both of their short sets complemented the stunning location on a warm summer night perfectly. 

At around the time Grennan was due to pick up the microphone himself, a helicopter was spotted above the outdoor venue, circling the arena once, before landing nearby - and yes, Grennan confirmed it was him who had been choppered in like a rockstar. 

But the singer brushed it off and said he was ‘still like us’ and had just had an incredibly busy day. 

Who can blame him, he had just released his new album, and it was refreshing to hear these new songs feature throughout his gig, as well as the chart-topping anthems everyone knows.

Chester and District Standard:

Grennan was high energy and his vocals were stunning throughout - he can definitely sing live for anyone wondering!

How Does it Feel, Don’t Break the Heart, All These Nights, Lionheart, Here, and Little Bit of Love all featured on the night, plus others, as well as new track Head Up; he took time teaching the main chorus lyrics to those members of the audience who might not have learnt them yet, which was a great touch.

One lucky fan was also brought on stage to sing Remind Me with him, a lovely addition which ‘reminded’ us that even though he may have travelled by helicopter that night, he still seems pretty down to earth.

Chester and District Standard:

With that many people in an outdoor venue which isn’t usually set up for concerts day-to-day, you’d think the sound and the atmosphere could have been a let down, but it was far from it; you could hear every word and could sense everyone having a magical time.

People were up out of their fold-up chairs and dancing the whole time - all ages coming together to enjoy a night of brilliant music, in a beautiful location, on a warm summer evening. 

Forest Live is a major outdoor live music series that introduces forests to new audiences around the country.

Chester and District Standard:

Going to a Forest Live concert helps Forestry England create ‘beautiful places for people to enjoy, run important conservation projects and keep growing trees’.