Paul Weller is the first headliner to be announced for the Forest Live gigs next summer.

"The Modfather" will play Bedgebury Pinetum in Goudhurst on Sunday, June 16 next year, as part of the series of gigs promoted by the Forestry Commission.

It will be a return to Bedgebury for the singer, who debuted at Forest Live back in 2004.

His latest album True Meanings entered the UK charts at No.2 and is his 26th studio album in a career which started in 1977 with The Jam’s debut album In the City.

Five era-defining albums followed before he also enjoyed success with The Style Council and solo success with releases including Wild Wood, Wake Up The Nation and Sonik Kicks.

A music icon, he has fans across the generations and is one of the most significant players of the British Music scene over the past four decades.

He said: “The Forest shows are always great gigs for us and it’s been a while since I last did them so I’m really looking forward to them next year.”

Forest Live is a series of outdoor live music gigs each summer at Forestry Commission England sites.

Money raised from ticket sales helps to look after the nation’s forests sustainably, for people to enjoy and wildlife to thrive.

Tickets for Paul Weller on Sunday, June 16, with support to be announced, go on sale on Friday, November 9 at 9am and cost £48.50 plus a booking fee.

To buy your tickets call 03000 680400 or go to forestryengland.uk/music