SLICKER Than Your Average star Craig David has been announced as the final star to headline at this year’s Forest Live.

The UK garage artist will perform at Westonbirt Arboretum on June 18 as part of The Forestry Commission’s popular annual festival of music.

The hit maker will perform his most recent No.1 singles since his return to the music industry, ‘When the Bassline drops’, as well as the BBC Children in Need single ‘All We Needed’ from his latest album ‘Following my Intuition’ which was released last year.

The Brit nominee will also sing ‘Fill me in’, ‘7 days’ and ‘Walk away’ off his debut album ‘Born To Do it’. The grime artist has picked up a number of awards since 2000 including Four MOBO awards and two MTV music awards.

Craig’s recent return to music proves his popularity has far from faded. When asked about performing at Forest Live Craig said: “I’m really looking forward to playing at Forest Live, there’s always something special about playing outside in the English summer.”

Other artists previously announced as part of this year’s line-up include multi-platinum artist Olly Murs, who has added an extra two dates to his spring arena tour, which he will perform as part of the Forest Live.

Contemporary British band Elbow have agreed to perform a number of dates during June and July as part of the festival. The band’s first album debuted in 2001 and their success has grown their 2014 ‘The Take Off And Landing of Everything’ album debuted at the top of the UK charts.

The line-up is complemented by pop icon and Brit award winner Rick Astley who will perform alongside singer songwriter Rumer as a guest. Rick will be performing a set of songs including ones from his latest album and his greatest hits.

The Forestry Commission is the government department responsible for protecting, expanding and promoting the sustainable management of woods and forests and increasing their value to society and the environment.

The music programme was first launched in 2001 at four Forestry Commission venues. Now looking forward to its 17th season, Forest Live gigs take place at seven forest locations in England and are well known for their amazing atmosphere and top class acts. Over 1.5 million music fans have attended Forest Live concerts over the course of the years.

Tickets costing £38.50, plus a £4.35 booking fee, will be available from 9am on Friday from the Forestry Commission box office. To book call 03000 680400, or buy online at www.forestry.gov.uk/music