With things a little shaky on the pitch, it is good to see The Stadium Of Light making a real success of Sunderland off it! When the ball started rolling back in 2009, with the arrival of pop superstars Take That and brit-pop legends Oasis playing back to back shows in the Summer, over 160,000 people attended the SOL Live events, putting Sunderland on the map as a major concert venue.

Over the last three years the Stadium has exceeded all expectations, getting bigger and attracting star names that have in the past graced the likes of Wembley and Glastonbury. The announcement of the Red Hot Chilli Peppers, closely followed by Coldplay and Bruce Springsteen has seen our city and community given a major boost.

As well as increasing tourism and revenue, it also allows us the opportunity to prove that we are a city rich with culture and creativity. I have attended several of the gigs over the last three years and logistically it is a triumph in itself that the stadium and it’s staff are able to accommodate these massive shows and do them justice.

Live music is clearly at the heart of the mackem public, demonstrated by the strength of ticket sales over the last 3 years. I think a lot of that is down to something you see at the Stadium Of Light at every home game, passion. For me, being able to pack the home of the Black Cats and observe a team of staff and volunteers from around our city working hard to put on these memorable and prestigious tour dates, makes me proud. For those outside of our mackem bubble, watching all the hype and excitement come to fruition, not only accounts for some fantastic occasions for Sunderland, but helps to enhance the reputation of our community as those who CAN DO, and with style!

For more information on The Stadium Of Lights events visit www.safc.com