ORGANISERS of the summer concerts at the County Ground say more could follow if people show their support for this year’s event.

Ticket sales got off to a slow start after confusion over when they were available and acts were being announced before they were confirmed.

Organisers say sales are picking up but less than half the tickets have been sold for two concerts that take place in under three weeks’ time.

Around 4,500 tickets have been sold for the whole weekend, but standing capacity in the ground for each concert is thought to be around 5,000.

It is a far cry from when Elton John took to the stage at the County Ground in 2005 and tickets sold out within days of going on sale.

Organisers of the festival-style concerts launched an advertising campaign last week, which has seen an increase in sales. They are urging the community to support the summer event in order for the venue to host more concerts in the future.

Kevin Metcalfe, a consultant for Big Summer Session and a sponsor at Swindon Town Football Club, said: “We are excited to be bringing the Big Summer Session concert to Swindon.

“It is great to see such huge acts coming to Swindon. As a Swindon Town supporter as well, it’s the perfect venue to have a gig like this.

“Friday night is great for those who are still in festival mode and for those who liked Britain’s Got Talent.

“Saturday is great for the families with all the Big Reunion stars, as well as Peter Andre, taking to the stage.

“We are encouraging everyone to be part of a great community concert, which is great for Swindon.

“We want to make Swindon the destination for music gigs.”

Two back-to-back shows were announced last month, and last week it was announced that Tulisa, the headline act on the Friday night would not be performing after cancelling her entire 2013 programme.

A replacement has not yet been announced for the Friday night, which features chart acts such as Katy B, Wiley, Tinchy Stryder, Ms Dynamite, Luminites, McKnasty, Alexis Jordan and SD*Jem.

The Saturday night will see some of the Big Reunion stars who have sold out arenas nationwide with Peter Andre, 911, Blue, Atomic Kitten, Liberty X, Honeyz, Five and B*Witched all taking to the stage.

Tickets for both concerts cost from £35 and doors will open from 5pm for a 6pm start on Friday, July 26, and 4pm for a 5pm start on Saturday, July 27.

They can be bought by calling 0844 844 0444 or by visiting www.ticketmaster.co.uk and searching for the Big Summer Session.