S Club kicked off their reunion tour with an emotional tribute tribute to late member Paul Cattermole.
The singer died suddenly from an underlying heart condition in April at the age of 46 just weeks after the noughties band announced plans to reform for the first time in eight years to mark 25 years since they originally hit the charts.
Following Cattermole’s passing, the group decided to press ahead with the tour, which they renamed The Good Times Tour, and said would be dedicated to the St Albans-born star.
Band member Hannah Spearritt, who previously dated Cattermole, decided not to join them.
The five-piece took to the stage of Manchester’s AO Arena on Thursday for what was officially billed as a preview of the Good Times tour to raise funds for the British Heart Foundation.
Footage of Cattermole performing the song Good Times on which he sang lead vocals, was mixed with a montage of clips from his time in the pop group.
“That’s our brother right there, man. Gone but you’ll never be forgotten. We miss you every single day,” said Bradley McIntosh, his voice breaking.
Jo O’Meara told the crowd: “Thank you so much [for] all the messages and love and support you’ve all shown all of us and to Paul’s family.
“We are so grateful for every single one of you,” Jo added before asking fans to make heart shapes with their hands “for our Paul”.
Jon Lee said: “Thank you so much, it’s very special for us this evening obviously, we dedicate this performance to Paul and to the British Heart Foundation so thank you so much for being here.”
Rachel Stevens said: “Thank you so much from the bottom of our hearts for all the love and support, all the incredible messages you’ve sent through this time, and all your support always. We love you so much.”
Tina Barrett added: “Thank you so much Manchester. Tonight is a celebration so let’s bring it all back for Paul.”
