COUNTRY-POP crossover star Nathan Carter is fast becoming one of Ireland's biggest live acts.

Monster hits such as Wagon Wheel and I Wanna Dance are also making him a massive name further afield.

Last year he beat both Beyoncé and Canadian rapper Drake to the number one spot at home and as a youngster he even performed in front of the Pope in Rome, but he's never played Clacton before...until now.

Nathan is currently on a mammoth UK tour which brings him to the West Cliff Theatre on February 25.

He grew up in a house filled with the music of Johnny Cash, Don Williams and Dolly Parton, learning to play guitar, piano and accordion from an early age.

He toured the world after becoming head chorister in the Liverpool Boys choir and is now on his travels again, performing tracks from album Stayin’ Up All Night with his six-piece band.

Fans can expect a variety of country, Irish, pop and ballads, with Nathan dusting off his accordian to provide some hand-clapping hooley.

He said: "I guess my music is a good mix of country, big ballads, rock 'n' roll, Irish and Celtic music - a real mixed bag I guess, and hopefully something for everyone.

"I guess because I'm relatively young myself – 26 years old – that younger folks can relate to me a bit more, however, I'm very lucky to have fans from eight to 80 at my shows.

"I love the challenge of playing new venues and especially in new countries. For example, I loved playing in France and Australia last year, and I can't wait to visit America in September.

"I just love doing what I am doing and I want to continue to grow my career – hopefully in other countries, but also to continue to grow a fan base here in the UK."

He lists chocolate and the odd pint of Guinness among his guilty pleasures...and still takes his nan on tour with him.

The Clacton show is selling out fast but a few tickets are still available priced £27.50 from the box office on 01255 433344.