It's not what you know, it's who you know, eh Gary? After co-writing, producing and performing the official Diamond Jubilee song earlier this year ("Sing"), Barlow's regal efforts have been rewarded this week with the award of an OBE by the Queen at Buckingham Palace. Of course, we're being a tad glib here - Gary Barlow has quietly, but assuredly, got on with writing a dozen #1 singles, sold over 40 million units worldwide, racked up a handful of Ivor Novello Awards and generously given his time (and money) to charity. So, well done.

By way of a double-celebration, Barlow's forthcoming UK tour, entitled "In Concert" and featuring Nell Bryden in support, is selling out fast - but there's big news for his fans because Gary has added a whole load more to the 2013 leg of the jaunt.

On sale from us at 9.30am this Friday (23rd November) will be new and extra shows in Glasgow (10th January 2013), then Aberdeen, Leicester, Southend, Hammersmith, Brighton, Scarborough and finally (for now) Manchester on the 20th. Prices will vary from £35 to £45 with support yet to be confirmed.

The 'In Concert' format will include, not only his own solo work but also plenty of Take That classics throughout. Prepare for one almighty dash for tickets.