classical singer Aled Jones will perform at a royal midsummer gala at Blackburn Cathedral on June 21 - and half the tickets are already sold.

The concert is being held in aid of the Prince's Trust and Princess Alexandra will be quest of honour.

He will be complemented by Lyn Fletcher, leader of the Hall, soprano Philippa Hyde, under the direction of conductor Richard Tanner, as well as the Lancashire Sinfonietta and the Blackburn Cathedral choristers.

The Prince's Trust, a charity which helps troubled young people get their lives on track, celebrates its 30th birthday birthday in May.

Mr Tanner said he thought it would be the first time Aled had sung at the Cathedral.

Gail Stanley, former High Sheriff of Lancashire, and the concert chairman, said: "The next step is to make the concert a sell-out and raise as much money as possible for the Trust."

Aled Jones is in concert at Blackburn Cathedral on June 21. Tickets, priced from £30, are on sale at the Blackburn Visitor Centre, Church Street, Blackburn, or from the box office on 01254 53277.</>