Around 17,000 fans piled into Durham County Cricket Club on Friday night to see the legendary rocker who has sold more than 200 million records worldwide.
An army of staff had been preparing Emirates Riverside since the beginning of the week to ensure a seamless, enjoyable and safe spectator experience.
Preparations for the jam-packed event involved installing a gigantic stage in front of the North Terrace and 10,000 extra seat seats on the pitch. A temporary staircase was installed between the South West Terrace and the Media Centre allowing fans to enter the pitch, usually occupied by Durham cricketers Paul Collingwood, Ben Stokes and Mark Wood.
The concert, which was presented by music and event promoters Cuffe and Taylor, was one of only two mainland Britain outdoor concerts that Rod will perform this year after his gig at Shrewsbury Town Football Club earlier in the week.
Durham County Cricket Club’s Chief Operations Officer, Richard Dowson, said: “It was fantastic to host such an amazing concert and to see a real music legend perform at Emirates Riverside.
“We’re delighted that so many people attended and enjoyed themselves. The concert was our largest ever crowd, just topping Elton John’s performance in 2006.
“It’s important that we continue to grow as a venue and this event has once again demonstrated our capabilities.”