Pictures: Take That's Howard Donald performed in Rawtenstall

The small performance took place at St Mary’s Chambers in Rawtenstall and the owner was eager to share some pictures of the rescheduled gig, which was meant to take place in March 2020.

While many of us know him as a Take That musician and vocalist he was on the St Mary’s stage playing house music as a DJ.

While Howard will be used to playing for thousands of people, this gig was small and intimate with a capacity of less than 200 people.

Emma Ljevar runs the venue with her husband and said the gig was “really surreal”.

She added: “It was really good. We had two support DJs on first and then Howard came on.

“We went backstage to meet him – he was really nice and welcoming and he gave me a hug when I first came in.”

Howard with Emma Ljevar (second from left)

She added that she had been a fan of Take That since the age of 15 and attended “all their concerts”.

Emma even shared some pictures of the 53-year-old and his performance that night.

In a Facebook post she wrote: “This weekend I met Howard Donald in our very own venue, in our hometown.

Howard Donald

“Our support DJs absolutely smashed it and I met some fantastic people.

“Those who know me will know I've been a massive Take That fan for as long as I can remember, and I not only got to have this whole experience but I also got a cuddle and a picture.

“I will remember these moments forever!”

She added: “This week was so busy we are so sleepy but I'm incredibly proud of what our team has achieved these few months.

Howard Donald meeting fans after the set

“It's not been easy and it quite possibly won't be for hospitality for a long time yet but I just wanted to thank our family, friends, staff and customers who have stuck by our side in the worst moments ever and helped our business stay alive.”

There are plenty of other fantastic gigs lined up at St Marys, including Judges Rule in October and Martin Kemp’s DJ set in April 2022.

Find out more and book your tickets on the company website.

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