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George Ezra concert is Bedford's 'biggest gig in its history'

Getty Images George Ezra live at Musgrove Park, Cork, Ireland on 11 JuneGetty Images
Fans will be hoping for green, green grass and blue, blue sky as George Ezra plays to a packed crowd on Friday

A town is preparing for its "biggest gig in its history" with a sell-out George Ezra concert, its organiser said.

The Hertfordshire singer will play to a capacity crowd of 15,000 at Bedford Park Concerts' penultimate night.

This year's gigs, over two weekends, have welcomed Sting, The Jacksons, Sister Sledge and Scooter.

"This is just the start, it's going to get bigger and better," a spokeswoman for promoter Cuffe & Taylor said.

Jessi Morgan Sting playing Bedford Park on Saturday, 24 JuneJessi Morgan
Sting played a live set in the town on Saturday, 24 June

It has been the first time the company, part of Live Nation, has run the events at Bedford Park, after taking over from the previous organiser.

"They're promising to bring even bigger and better acts next year, it's a really exciting time for the live music scene in Bedford," said Louise Harris, press officer for Bedford Park Concerts, on behalf of Cuffe and Taylor.

Pavilion At The Park Dawn and Martin outside Pavilion At The Park, BedfordPavilion At The Park
Dawn and Martin run Pavilion At The Park, close to where the concerts are held

Dawn Cooper, who runs Pavilion At The Park cafe with her partner Martin Keys, said the events had "brought an amazing buzz and excitement".

"The increase in footfall coming into the town centre and park has helped raise the awareness of how diverse and vibrant Bedford is," she said.

"The concerts drive new as well as local people to the area, with renowned celebrities, new and treasured. There's been something for everyone and we can't wait to see the line-up for next year."

Ms Harris added: "Every hotel is booked out, restaurants, pubs and cafes are full, it's giving a boost to the local economy."

Donna Samuels The Jacksons on stage at Bedford Park ConcertsDonna Samuels
The Jacksons travelled to Bedford to perform in the concert series

Bedford's very own Tom Grennan appeared on stage last year and other acts who have come to the town over recent years have included Olly Murs, Billy Ocean, Jess Glynn and Tom Jones.

This year's concert series ends on Saturday with Ministry of Sound Classical.

Jessi Morgan Sting playing Bedford Park on Saturday 24 JuneJessi Morgan
Crowds took over Bedford Park last weekend as Sting and his son, Andy Sumner (pictured) performed

A spokesman for Bedford Borough Council, which owns the park, said having "worldwide stars" meant people from all over the country had visited "our town".

He said the hiring fee would be "utilised to invest in our parks for the benefit of our residents and visitors who use the park all year round".

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