Erasure have announced details of their first live shows in more than four years.

The band will play seven dates next summer as part of the Forest Commission’s Live Music initiative.

The dates begin at Thetford Forest in Suffolk on June 10 and conclude at Cheshire’s Delamere Forest on July 1.

Erasure’s Andy Bell said: “This wonderful opportunity to perform for the fans in such a unique backdrop feels like just the right way to jump back in to Erasure after a four year break.

“We’re excited to be playing in the woods and really hope it doesn’t rain.”

Tickets go on sale on Friday (December 10) at 9am.

Erasure’s 2011 UK tour dates are:

• Suffolk, Thetford Forest - June 10
• Kent, Bedgebury Pinetum & Forest - 11
• Nottinghamshire, Sherwood Pines Forest Park - 17
• Gloucestshire, Westonbirt Arboretum - 18
• Staffordshire, Cannock Chase Forest - 24
• North Yorkshire, Dalby Forest - 25

(by Jason Gregory)