Olly Murs returns home for Chelmsford gig

Singer Olly Murs has announced he will be performing the biggest Essex gig he has ever done.

The Witham-born pop star, 40, will take to the stage at Chelmsford City Racecourse on 6 July next year.

The racecourse's commercial director, Nathan Holmes, said it was a "great story for Essex" to be hosting the Troublemaker singer "just 15 minutes from where he grew up".

The racecourse recently announced a performance by 10-time Grammy winner Justin Timberlake on 4 July - two days before Murs' gig.

"I can't wait to be performing back at home and I look forward to seeing you guys next summer at the racecourse," Murs said, announcing the news live on BBC Essex.

"What a weekend it's gonna be!"

He had been inspired to put on the gig after learning that Timberlake was due to play there too.

"I couldn't believe he was doing it," Murs said. "I'm sure like most people in Essex, when I saw his list of dates - there was Chelmsford City Racecourse, I thought 'that cannot be true'.

"I didn't even know there was gigs happening at the racecourse, and a few weeks later it's happening!"

The former X-Factor contestant is embarking on a nationwide tour to mark 15 years since his appearance on the ITV talent show.

He will be joined by double Brit Award-winning band Blue on the tour - with triple Mobo award winner Lemar also performing at the racecourse.

Tickets for the event will go on sale on 11 October.

Follow Essex news on BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram and X.