THIS summer, Russell Watson will be making an emotional and welcome return to the stage for a brand-new UK tour.

When Russell begins his tour it will be nearly seven months on from an operation to remove a brain tumour, but as he is well on the road to recovery, he's looking forward to getting back to doing what he loves most - singing for his fans.

Russell will be performing a mixture of his well-loved songs and new material from his latest album Outside In, a release which sees him tackling an iconic repertoire with a newly invigorated love of life and a maturing singing voice.

Recovering from his illness, Russell is living every day to the fullest.

With a voice which is now better and more powerful than ever, Russell continues to prove that he can imbue popular songs as well as classical arias with his own unique style and grace.

Russell Watson is the biggest-selling UK artist of the 21st century and winner of four classical Brit awards.

Each of his records have achieved multi-platinum sales in the UK and he holds the world record for having an album at No 1 for 52 consecutive weeks.

Russell has sung for the Pope and US presidents, but says he cannot wait to perform for his most important audience of all - his fans.

The Salford-born singer, renowned for his stunning live performances, has seen his albums take opera and classical music to a new audience.

Russell Watson performs at the BIC on Friday, June 27 at 7.30pm. Tickets are £25, £37.50 and £55 from the box office on 0870 111 3000.