COULD Hereford United's Edgar Street ground become an outdoor music venue to rank with the best?

The club certainly hopes so depending on the success of an inaugural concert being held on the pitch tonight.

The concert, which runs from 6pm to midnight, features several tribute acts to famous artists, several of whom have appeared on ITV's 'Stars In Their Eyes' programme, with the music of Elton John, Abba, Freddie Mercury, Cher and Celine Dion among those featured.

But quite aside the kudos of such an event, United are looking upon it as an important fund-raiser.

And with the purse-strings still tight at Edgar Street, additional income is always welcome, particularly during the summer when there is no football-related revenue - that is why the club hope to make it an annual event if it is successful.

Director of Football Graham Turner said: "Tickets have been going pretty well. We are confident it will be a good night."

Two Premiership clubs will visit Hereford as part of their new season preparations. Aston Villa come to Edgar Street on Saturday, July 29 (3pm) while Leicester City, who needed a replay to knock the Bulls out of last season's FA Cup third round, are the visitors on Wednesday, August 9 (7.30pm). Two other Football League clubs make up the home friendlies - Oxford United on Tuesday, August 1 (7.30pm) and Shrewsbury Town on Saturday, August 5 (3pm). United, who began their build-up with a 2-2 draw at Oldbury United on Thursday, play their next friendly at Halesowen Town next Tuesday, July 25 (7.30pm). They also visit Moor Green on Thursday, July 27 (7.30pm) and Chasetown on Thursday, August 3 (7.30pm).