Thousands of screaming fans descended on Thetford Forest to see pop royalty Westlife on Friday night.

Many queued for several hours to ensure their place at the front of the crowd for a chance to see their idols up close.

The crowd had already settled into a fantastic evening, enjoying warm sunny weather and a buzzing atmosphere, when the boys took to the stage.

Westlife got the crowd singing, clapping, dancing and swaying with some of their 14 number one hits, including Home, You Raise Me Up and Flying Without Wings, but also took the time to chat and interact with fans.

Some of the many banners were read aloud and the group launched into an impromptu performance of Tom Jones's You Can Leave Your Hat On when a large pair of ladies briefs were thrown on stage.

The group delighted a couple of fans by singing them happy birthday and a lucky few were invited to go up on stage with the band.

Their charm and gentle humour managed to give the gig – attended by an estimated 8,000 people – an intimate feel and the fabulous forest setting only added to a memorable night.

The group is known for its pop ballads, but it wasn't afraid to try some edgier covers last night, including Lady Gaga's Bad Romance and numbers by Coldplay, Rihanna and the Black Eyed Peas.

Some of the performances were quite unexpected, but Westlife could do no wrong.

Daisy Wallage