NEWTON star Rick Astley has announced he will play a free gig for all NHS frontline, primary care and emergency services staff.

It is planned to take place on Wednesday, October 28 at Manchester Arena, when it is hoped the current coronavirus pandemic will be well under control.

All frontline NHS staff and primary care workers will be eligible for tickets, as well as emergency services workers including ambulance, fire service and police officers.

Rick, who first shot to fame with the Stock Aitken Waterman produced Never Gonna Give You Up in ‎1987, is promising the evening is set to feature a career-long set, from older hits like Together Forever to some of his most recent songs from albums 50 and Beautiful Life.

He said: “Our NHS and emergency services are amazing. This concert is a thank you to all those fantastic frontline staff. I promise my band and I will give it everything to give you a great night out.”

Ticket applications must only be made by the eligible frontline staff (NHS staff, Primary Care staff and Emergency Services) who must bring their valid staff ID card (original format, no photocopies) to the show, as ticket checks will be in operation.

All tickets will carry the name of the person who mad e the booking, and this must match the name that is on the original ID card or admission will be refused. The guest of the eligible staff member will need to present and enter the venue at the same time.

Tickets will be limited to two per person (eligible staff members and one guest) and will be available from tomorrow, April 2, at 7pm via Ticketmaster.