TAKE That fans packed into Sunderland's Stadium of Light last night to celebrate a concert of true showmanship proportions.

Despite torrential rain dampening spirits elsewhere in the region, the stormclouds managed to stay away as pop superstars Gary Barlow, Mark Owen, Jason Orange and Howard Donald sang through the bands best loved hits to a crowd of more than 50,000.

The show itself was a true spectacular - the theme reflecting the title of their latest smash it album, The Circus.

The first-ever concert held at the Stadium of Light was hailed a success.

SAFC Concert Project Manager Gary Hutchinson said: “It was great to see the months of planning and hard work culminate in such a fantastic event.

"This event has shown that not only is there a demand for such large scale events in the city but also that we are more than equipped to host them.”

And the good-natured crowd was praised by authorities for their exemplary behaviour.

Chief Superintendent of Northumbria Police, Neil MacKay said: “This was the first concert to be held at the Stadium of Light and a huge amount of planning on behalf of the club, police, city council, fire brigade and ambulance service went into it.

“The crowd was in good spirits, it was a successful event enjoyed by all and we’re very pleased with the way it went.”

Ken Scott, Chairman of the Safety Advisory Group added: “Those attending were exceptionally well behaved, compliant of all requests from stewards and they came in the right spirit.

"They were a credit to the city and the region and we would welcome them back in the future.”

Take That will play a second show at the Stadium tonight (Saturday), followed by rock giants Oasis on Wednesday.

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