Rick’s never gonna give us up...

EIGHTIES star Ricky Astley said he ‘cannot wait’ to appear at next month’s Rewind music festival.

The singer who went from obscurity ito chart stardom with his debut single “Never Gonna Give You Up” will be appearing at the event at Capesthorne Hall on Saturday, August 30 to Sunday, August 31.

He will be joining other retro acts such as Marc Almond, Go West, Mike and the Mechanics, China Crisis, T’Pau, Go West, Heaven 17 , Midge Ure, Billy Ocean, and former Frankie Goes To Hollywood vocalist and principle songwriter, Holly Johnson, who celebrates the 30 anniversary of his hit single Relax this year.

Rick, 48, who hails from Warrington, has only visited the area once on a school trip to Jodrell Bank.

He said he was looking forward to the show.

“Macclesfield is a beautiful part of the country and I remember schools trips there. Capesthorne Hall is a stunning venue for the festival and cannot wait to get on stage.”

Rick was plucked from obscurity by legendary producers Stock, Aitken and Waterman in 1987 but walked away from the demanding music industry at the height of his fame.

Since then he made a comeback with new material and found success as a DJ on Magic FM.

Although he has performed his hits thousands of time, he still get a buzz from playing them.

He said: “There’s nothing like the reaction of the audience when they recognise the opening bars to Never Gonna Give You Up. I will never get tired of that. I can’t wait to share that moment with the Macclesfield audience.”

As well as music there will be street entertainers, a silent disco and fireworks.

For details visit rewindfestival.com/ north.