Rick Astley returns to his roots at Warrington Parr Hall

EIGHTIES Pop icon Rick Astley returned to his roots with his first ever concert at Warrington Parr Hall since shooting to fame as part of the Stock Aitken Waterman production line.

Pete Waterman of Mr Smith’s Hit Man and Her Fame, was among the audience to see the return of his prodigal son, who raised the roof in front of an enthusiastic home crowd.

The last time Rick appeared on stage at the Parr Hall was before his rapid raise to fame as a 21-year-old in 1987, with a group of friends in a band named FBI from Newton-le-Willows, in a battle of the bands competition.

It was a true home coming for Rick, whose mother was in the audience alongside concert promoter and Warrington Wolves’ owner Simon Moran from SJM.

Now aged 50, Rick said performing at the Parr Hall made him more nervous than playing at big shows around the world and was a truly memorable occasion.

“It makes me nervous because you guys know who I am and where I came from. I truly appreciate your support.”

As well as performing his classic hits including “Whenever you need somebody” and “Never Gonna Give you up” he included material off his new album and some covers.

He has maintained his clean cut image wearing a smart suit and tie and taking refreshment from a mug of tea!

After shunning fame and fortune after his initial success, Rick certainly seems to be enjoying his revival – especially back home in Warrington.

Time for a brew- Rick Astley at Warrington Parr Hall.

Cheers Warrington – Rick Astley toasts the home crowd with a mug of tea

Welcome home @rickastley @PyramidParrHall 👍😃 pic.twitter.com/T2ScdGzbYW

— Gary Skentelbery (@GarySkent) April 5, 2016

Warrington Parr Hall, can you feel it? #RickAstleyTour https://t.co/ZI1VAI4Qo5 RT pic.twitter.com/859SrBBtQk

— Rick Astley (@rickastley) April 5, 2016