THEY say the journey is as important as the destination. Perhaps that’s what makes Russell Watson’s story so interesting.

Now a world famous classical performer, Watson left school with zero qualifications and spent the next eight years working in a mundane nuts and bolts factory.

But, of course, the tide turned for the four-time Brit Classical Award winner and now he is in demand across the globe.

And on Monday’ (June 4) there’s the chance to catch him right here in Essex when he brings his tour, Serenade, to the Civic Theatre in Chelmsford.

Accompanied by his pianist and a guest choir the renowned tenor will be performing songs from his new album True Stories, together with a selection of hits from his illustrious career.

Watson, 51, has sold more than seven million albums and performed for The Queen, The Pope and two US Presidents.

His debut album ‘The Voice’ shot up the UK charts where he held the number one spot for a world record 52 weeks. At the same time, Watson held the number one spot in the USA, making him the first British male to hold the accolade of a simultaneous transatlantic number one.

His second studio album ‘Encore’ soon followed, it became an even greater success selling almost two million copies worldwide. During this period Watson was rewarded with various awards including four Classical Brits.

True Stories, his new album, features songs such as In the Wee Small Hours, Sometimes Love Just Aint Enough, Aprile, Do You Hear What I Hear? and the Lord’s Prayer, which the audience can expect to be belted out across the theatre in true Watson style.

Tickets for the Civic Theatre performance cost £46. Visit www.chelmsford.gov.uk/theatres to book.

If you can’t make the Chelmsford date there’s also a chance to catch the singer later in the year when he brings his Canzoni d’Amore tour to Southend. He’ll be at the Cliffs Pavilion on Sunday October 28.