SINGING sensation Katherine Jenkins is preparing to lead the Queen’s birthday celebrations – but not before performing a special outdoor concert in the North-East next month.

The internationally-renowned superstar, who has helped popularise classical music in recent years, will be releasing her own version of the National Anthem tomorrow (Thursday April 21) to mark Her Majesty turning 90.

She will also be performing at two special concerts celebrating the occasion in May and June.

Before her royal appointments Ms Jenkins will be appearing in Herrington Country Park, Sunderland, on Friday, May 6. Entrance is from 5.30pm, with the concert starting at 8pm.

The open-air concert will also feature the National Symphony Orchestra and acclaimed violinists Vladimir and Anton Jablokov.

It is the first event to be organised by Northern Sessions, a division of events company Sunderland Live which plans to bring more big names to the city in the coming months.

Sunderland Live chief executive Alison McDonough said: “This is an ideal opportunity for classical music fans of all ages to see Katherine performing live before she celebrates the Queen’s 90th birthday.”

“It is going to be an amazing evening and I’m sure the National Symphony Orchestra and Vladimir and Anton will also help to make it an event fit for royalty.”

Tickets are £33 each and available from www.thenorthernsessions.co.uk. Further details can also be found by following thenorthernsess on Twitter or searching The Northern Sessions on Facebook.