M People to perform at Dalby Forest
Photo: Forestry Commission Music

A RECORD number of music fans will be doing their bit for the environment as a North Yorkshire forest gets ready to rock later this month.

Work is soon to get underway to turn a natural clearing in the 8,600-acre Dalby Forest near Pickering into a massive concert venue.

Three open air gigs are being staged by the Forestry Commission, including Brit winner James Morrison on Friday 22 June, with Indie band Travis and dance outfit, M People, appearing the following Saturday (23 June) and Sunday (24 June), respectively.

Money from the gigs will be ploughed back in the care of woods in Yorkshire and the Tees Valley. Bumper tickets sales from previous shows by Embrace, UB40 and Madness, helped pay for the new 35 mile network of eco-friendly bike trails recently opened in Dalby.

Paul Cody, District Forester, said: "The success of the concerts over recent years has made a big impact, allowing us to invest in conservation and recreational projects. We're looking forward to another fabulous weekend. Dalby is a truly unique musical venue and magical setting for mid-summer music. "

Gates open at 6pm. Support acts for James Morrison will be guitarist Sam Beeton and Rushmore. M People will be backed by Cicada. Extensive bar and catering facilities will be provided, along with free car parking.

Tickets are available from the Forestry Commission box office on 01842 814612, online at www.forestry.gov.uk/music, or direct from the new Dalby Forest Visitor Centre (counter sales only).

Further information is available at www.forestry.gov.uk/music