Sam Fender 'overwhelmed' by album success

Sam Fender has topped the UK charts with his third studio album.

People Watching has been named the biggest opening week for a British album since Harry's House by Harry Styles, the Official Charts company has said.

It racked up 107,100 chart units in its first seven days.

The North Shields-born musician will perform at the Brit Awards on Saturday, where he has been nominated for best artist of the year and best rock or alternative act.

Fender began his career in 2013 and has achieved three UK top 10 singles and three UK number one albums.

The songs on People Watching are rooted in the North East, and one track inspired by his grandparents features the Easington Colliery Brass Band.

Speaking after his album hit the number one spot, he said: "This is completely overwhelming.

"Thank you to everyone who's supported us and listened to the album this week."

It is the first time an artist has sold more than 100,000 units since former One Direction singer Styles managed 113,000 units with his third album in its first week in May 2022.

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