The Eagles to play Stormont

The Eagles album cover for Hotel California

Rock band the Eagles are to play a gig this summer at Stormont, Northern Ireland's seat of government.

The concert date has been set for 29 June and will form part of their "Lifetime of Hits in One Night" tour.

The Eagles, whose greatest hits album was the biggest selling of all time, have never played Belfast before.

The tradition of using the grounds of Stormont for concerts was started by former NI Secretary Mo Mowlam in 1998.

'Spectacular arena

She threw open the grounds to Sir Elton John who performed a few weeks after the Good Friday Agreement referendum.

Pavorotti has also played Stormont and last year Lord of the Dance star Michael Flatley took to the stage.

Michael Flatley performing last year

Aiken promotions which has staged all the Stormont shows say they are confident the gig will pull in a big crowd.

Jim Aiken said: "The Eagles are the world's largest grossing touring group and it is with great pride that they are to play in probably the most spectacular outdoor arena in the world.

"This concert should provide a boost to the tourist industry and to Northern Ireland."

Mr Aiken added that in planning the concert his company would take account of the advice from the authorities about the foot-and-mouth situation.

Tickets go on sale for the concert on Saturday 31 March. They are priced at £45 seated and £35 standing.