THE University of Bolton Stadium will host a series of drive-in concerts this summer — bringing in much-needed revenue for the club and much-needed entertainment for the town.

Promoters Live Nation confirmed a host of acts including The Zutons, Ash, Dizzee Rascal, The Lightning Seeds and Gary Numan have all signed up to play at the ‘Utilita Live From The Drive-In’ events at 12 venues across the UK.

Birmingham, Liverpool and London are among the other cities holding events — with Wanderers’ home ground staging 16 concerts between Friday, July 24, and and Monday, August 31.

Opera singer Russell Watson kicks off proceedings in Bolton with Beverley Knight, Embrace, Brand New Heavies and The Streets among the other acts confirmed.
The 300-car gigs have been designed to provide a safe alternative to the many events that have been cancelled this summer.

Promoter Peter Taylor said Live Nation was “excited” to help live music resume.

He said: “This outdoor concert series was created as a way to reimagine the live music experience during a time of social distancing by allowing fans to enjoy concerts in the safest way possible."

Concert-goers will be able to stand outside their vehicles in allocated spaces, or sit in their own fold-out chairs, although umbrellas will not be permitted.

Pets will also not be allowed and attendees are prevented from taking their own food.

State-of-the-art sound systems and high-definition LED screens are also being promised.

Live Nation added they would be “adhering to the government’s current social distancing rules to protect fans, artists, crews and staff at all times”.

Other acts playing in Bolton are Tony Hadley, Bjorn Again, Skindred, Cream Classical Ibiza, Sigala, Reggae Roast vs Gentleman’s Dub Club Sound System and a live version of Brainiac.

Tickets available on the Live Nation website from June 22.