British music icon Paul Weller treated fans to a jam-packed set of songs from around five decades in music.

The Modfather, as he is often referred to, played material from his extensive back catalogue that spans almost half a century.

The Hunts Post: Paul Weller at Thetford Forest. Image: Lee BlanchflowerPaul Weller at Thetford Forest. Image: Lee Blanchflower (Image: Lee Blanchflower)

After taking to the stage on Saturday night, Weller told gig-goers at Thetford Forest: "Good evening everyone, nice to be back here."

He added they were "in for a long set, so settle in" and he was not wrong.

Hits from The Jam, The Style Council as well as his successful solo career were part of a lengthy set - as well as a euphoric encore - which did not finish until gone 10.40pm.

Weller, who took to the stage wearing a white top and dark trousers, was coolness personified.

The Hunts Post: Paul Weller at Thetford Forest. Image: Lee BlanchflowerPaul Weller at Thetford Forest. Image: Lee Blanchflower (Image: Lee Blanchflower)

As a musician and performer he has influenced so many artists over the years, including the likes of Noel Gallagher, and it was easy to see why.

Flitting effortlessly between guitar and piano, rock anthem and magical melody throughout the night it was a musical masterclass from Weller.

A stalwart of Forest Live, Weller had made 25 appearances - the most by any artist - since his debut at the Forest Live events in 2004.

He was composed, assured and so very at home in the forest setting which has seen the likes of Tom Grennan and Anne-Marie perform over the last few nights.

Among the kaleidoscope of hits Weller played were From the Floorboards Up, Shout to the Top, Fat Pop, Hung Up, It's a Very Deep Sea, Wild Wood, Peacock Suit and Start.

The Hunts Post: Fans watching Paul Weller at Thetford Forest. Image: Lee BlanchflowerFans watching Paul Weller at Thetford Forest. Image: Lee Blanchflower (Image: Lee Blanchflower)

REVIEW: Tom Grennan brings a party to Thetford Forest

Weller left the stage for a short while, but then treated fans to an encore which included The Changingman, the sultry You Do Something To Me, Broken Stones and of course the epic A Town Called Malice.

Kelly Jones, of the Stereophonics, looked very impressive as part of new outfit Far From Saints, also featuring Patty Lynn and Dwight Baker, who were also part of the bill.

The Hunts Post: Kelly Jones (left) with new outfit Far From SaintsKelly Jones (left) with new outfit Far From Saints (Image: Lee Blanchflower)

Anne-Marie review: Star has The Voice for Thetford Forest

But it was Weller that most had come to see and he showed just why he has been in the business for five decades and is still making new music which matters.

Pure class.

The gig was part of Forestry England’s Forest Live concert series.