Hopetoun to host pop gigs

POP and rock gigs for up to 12,000 people are set to be held in the grounds of an ancestral home on the outskirts of the Capital.

Up to four concerts will be staged at Hopetoun House, with stars including Elton John, Lionel Richie and Tom Jones thought to be contenders to perform.

Promotors Les Kidger and Kenny Cameron, behind shows by boyband Westlife and Rod Stewart in the Highlands, have agreed an initial five-year deal with the family which has owned the stately home in South Queensferry since 1699.

They are expected to compete with the concerts held at Edinburgh Castle Esplanade each summer.