Brave opera singer Russell Watson continued his comeback from a brain tumour with a triumphant concert in Birmingham.

The record-breaking vocalist showed his health problems of two years ago had not affected his voice as he performed at the Symphony Hall last night as part of his second full UK tour since making a successful recovery.

It was a St George’s Day treat for fans as he opened the show in fine form with operatic classic O Sole Mio.

A bumper crowd of all ages turned out to see the Salford-born tenor, affectionately known as ‘The Voice,’ who has scooped a variety of accolades throughout his career, including four Classical Brit Awards, while he is recognised worldwide as the UK’s biggest selling classical artist of the 21st century. Other highlights of the evening included a belting version of the theme from hit movie Gladiator, II Gladiatore.

He endeared himself to the crowd, making jokes throughout and even leaving the stage to wander among the audience, posing for pictures as he sang.

He was joined at times by Liverpool’s Sense of Sound choir, who also treated the crowd to some a capella performances, while an organist backed Phantom of the Opera’s Music of the Night, before Watson ended with a rousing rendition of Nessun Dorma.