IT wasn't long before word spread yesterday that singer Ed Sheeran was on the fairways of a scenic Co Down golf course.
The multi-award winning performer had arrived for his noon tee time at Ardglass Golf Club and within an hour, crowds of fans were descending on the idyllic course.
His unexpected appearance in Ardglass came just a day before he takes to the stage in Belfast.
With hits including, 'Castle on the Hill' and 'Galway Girl', Sheeran will perform at Boucher Road Playing Fields tonight as part of his European tour.
He kicked off the first leg of his tour over the weekend with three performances at Páirc Uí Chaoimh in Cork before travelling north for tonight's gig.
Advice for fans going to the Ed Sheeran concert in Belfast
But it appears that Sheeran was hoping for a bit of relaxation ahead of the Belfast gig when he visited Ardglass Golf Club. Arriving in a blacked out vehicle, Sheeran was accompanying George Lowden, a well-known acoustic guitar maker, who is a member of the club.
His visit to the course was arranged weeks ago and came after he is understood to have visited Mr Lowden's music store in Downpatrick last week.
Paul Vaughan, director of golf at Ardglass Golf Club, last night told The Irish News the singer was "really blown away" by the Co Down course.
"I've known about his visit for weeks, but was sworn to secrecy," he said.
"He arrived at midday for his 12 o'clock tee time and spent time on the course as well as in the pro shop.
"He was very friendly, chatted to staff and took people's cameras to take selfies with them. He was very down to earth.
"But very quickly, word must have spread that he was here and people kept arriving, I was shocked at how quick word spread.
"He got out for a few holes though, but I think he was stuck for time.
"He was very impressed with how beautiful the views were when he arrived, he couldn't believe the setting and kept saying how nice it is. He seemed to be really blown away.
"It's wonderful to have someone like him visit us, he was really nice to everyone and thanked us all."
Sheeran will take to the stage in front of a sell-out crowd in Belfast tonight with gates at the venue due to open at 5pm.
However, fans have been warned that early queuing "will not be permitted in the streets around the venue".
Irish trad band Beoga are the first support act due to take to the stage tonight with the group expected to perform at around 5.45pm. Jamie Lawson is due on stage at 6.30pm followed by Anne Marie from 7.30pm with Sheeran expected at 8.45pm.
Fans have also been warned about bogus tickets with concert-goers advised to not buy tickets from unofficial sources.
Fans must bring their tickets along with the purchasing credit card or a photo/photocopy of the card and a valid form of ID to reflect family name.
Those travelling to the gig are also being advised to use public transport due to the large volumes of people expected in the area.
"The venue is well served by public transport. Bus and Rail transport options can all bring you within walking distance of the venue," said Aiken Promotions.
"Plan your journey online from anywhere in Ireland to the venue via www.translink.co.uk.
"As the venue is situated in residential and business areas, road closures will be put in place for the concert."
Read more: Everything you need to know ahead of the Ed Sheeran concert
