Beyonce launches Formation tour in Sunderland

Beyonce's Sunderland concert will be her third in the north east of England

Popstar Beyonce will launch the European leg of her world tour at Sunderland's Stadium of Light.

It will be the third time the singer, who on Sunday performed at the Super Bowl 50 half-time show, has appeared in the north east of England.

Sunderland commercial director Gary Hutchinson said the Formation show on 28 June will be the "biggest concert" held at the stadium.

Previous performers include Take That, Bruce Springsteen and Oasis.

Mr Hutchinson said: "We can't wait to welcome her to the city and the stadium."

Beyonce previously performed in the North East when she visited Newcastle for her I Am tour in 2009 and her Dangerously in Love Tour in 2003.

Rob Jewitt, a senior lecturer in media and culture at the University of Sunderland, said a Beyonce show will be a huge boost to the city.

He said: "She is one the world's biggest acts right now, the queen of pop. She is more than just a singer, she is iconic and one of the most relevant performers in the world who galvanises people's opinions.

"Her concert is causing a lot of excitement, I'm sure it will be a sell out, we will be the first city in the UK to see her new show.

"The Stadium of Light has proven it can host big acts before so Beyonce should enjoy her time there.

"Hopefully she will put a smile on the faces of the people in the stadium - with the city's football going the way it is, we could all use a lift."