WE certainly chose the odds on favourite when we went to see the sell-out performance from Simply Red at Newmarket Nights.Mick Hucknall and the band put on a fantastic show for the many, many fans that went along on this warm, dry evening.

WE certainly chose the odds on favourite when we went to see the sell-out performance from Simply Red at Newmarket Nights.

Mick Hucknall and the band put on a fantastic show for the many, many fans that went along on this warm, dry evening.

An evening with the stars, we were also treated to several appearances from jockey Frankie Dettori on the track. Six races built up to the music, and we were also able to get up close and personal to the horses and jockeys as they were paraded in the ring. The races are what make this venue different from the rest and it is certainly something different to make it such a special event.

As the sky darkened and the band arrived on stage, Mick announced it was Simply Red's 25th anniversary and they would be playing the hits that spanned this impressive time. They certainly didn't disappoint us.

Among others, a very smartly dressed Mick treated us to versions of the upbeat 'Fairground' and 'A New Flame', and slowed down for 'If You Don't Know Me By Now' and of course, 'Holding Back The Years.'

There were a few new songs included in the line up to show they can still do it after all these years. And they certainly can. Mick's voice has only improved over time and singing live proved this.

From the 1980's, when the band started out, Mick performed 'Money's Too Tight To Mention' and laughed about how it was as appropriate now as it was all those years ago.

When we thought it was all over, the guys came back on stage to perform favorites including 'Stars' and then came back on once again to put a on perfect ending to send us on our journey home happy.

It was great to see such a professional band playing their hearts out to hit after hit and clearly enjoying the whole experience.

Angela Stagg