TOM O'dell has been named as the first act to performannounced as the first artist to perform at Westonbirt this summer, as part of the Forestry Commission's programme of concerts.

Released in June 2013, Tom Odell’s debut album ‘Long Way Down’ shot straight to number one. He heard the news whilst performing on the John Peel Stage at Glastonbury that year. Singles from the album including ‘Can’t Pretend’, ‘Hold Me’ and the gargantuan ‘Another Love’ illustrate a song-writing maturity beyond his years. This has resulted in his achieving the ultimate industry accolade of ‘Songwriter of the Year’ at the 2014 Ivor Novello Awards as well as previously winning the BRITs Critics’ Choice Award for 2013. Following a succession of sold out headline tours and with ‘Long Way Down’ being certified gold, a packed summer of festival appearances in 2014 included V Festival, Isle of Wight and a show supporting one of his idols Neil Young at Hyde Park.

Chosen to perform the soundtrack to this year’s John Lewis Christmas advert, the 24-year-old has added his spine-tingling vocals to a cover of John Lennon’s classic ‘Real Love’, generating millions of YouTube views. Tom is currently in the studio recording his new album.

Forest Live is an independent programme organised by the Forestry Commission to bring forests to new audiences and income generated from ticket sales is spent on protecting, improving and expanding England’s forests and woodlands and increasing their value to people and wildlife. Over Forest Live’s 14 year history, money raised has contributed to a wide range of projects, from wildlife conservation to making improvements for visitors.

Commenting on his forest gigs, Tom Odell said, “This will be a whole new experience for me. I can’t wait to bring my live show to the woods and I hope to see you there.”

Tom Odell plus guests visits Westonbirt Arboretum on Saturday, June 20. Tickets go on sale from 9am on Friday, December 19. Visit www.forestry.gov.uk/music for ticket prices and more details.