Bedfordshire duo make history by reaching the top ten

The Shires hail from Bedfordshire. Singer Crissie Rhodes, 26, grew up in Shefford and fellow musician Ben Earle, also 26, lives in Slip End near Luton.

Yesterday, fans of the country duo waited with baited breath to see if they had reached the top ten albums chart with the release of their debut ‘Brave’ last Monday.

And they were delighted to see The Shires had successfully claimed the number ten slot.

Sarah Webb posted on Twitter: “Congratulations to you both on all your hard work & dedication.... A much deserved Top Ten, the first of many.”

The Shires took to social media themselves to celebrate their victory, posting on Instagram: “No.10 on the album charts! Can’t believe it!!!! Thank you all so much”

Director of BBC Music and CMA board member, Bob Shennan, said: “From the very first play, The Shires have proved to be a class act. They also prove that a British artist can create authentic country music.”

The Shires go on tour next month, performing at The Stables, Milton Keynes on April 13 and Bedford Corn Exchange on April 27. For more information visit www.theshiresmusic.com/tour.