Ipswich set to turn pink for Ed Sheeran’s Portman Road concerts

Ipswich is set to turn pink this summer to celebrate Ed Sheeran’s homecoming gigs.

The singer-songwriter from Framlingham will perform three concerts at Portman Road from July 11 to 13.

The tour will see him debut new tracks from his upcoming album, Play, set for release on September 12.

Ipswich Borough Council and Ipswich Central Business Improvement District (BID) have teamed up to mark the ‘coming home’ concerts by turning the town pink in July.

The streets will be decorated with pink bunting – matching the colour of his Play album – to welcome Ed and his fans.

Lee Walker, chief executive of the BID, said it was a chance for the whole town to celebrate.

He said: “When we heard that global superstar, dedicated Ipswich Town fan and local lad Ed Sheeran was coming home to perform in Ipswich this summer, and bringing 90,000 fans with him, we knew we had to celebrate.”

During July, there will be street entertainment in the town, including live music from local artists.

On concert days, there will be a music zone, merchandise as well as food and drink stalls on the Cornhill.

Businesses are also encouraged to host their own Ed Sheeran-inspired events, such as music quizzes, open mic nights or specially named menu items.

Venus around the town which have a connection with the pop star will be highlighted on a walking tour hosted on the All About Ipswich website.

Ipswich BID has also launched a window dressing competition to turn shop windows pink in early July.

The windows will be judged on Friday, July 11 and the best display will receive a £500 cash prize.