Live 8 Concert To Be Held At Paris' Versailles Palace

LATEST: SIR Bob Geldof has secured the Versailles Palace as the backdrop for Paris' Live 8 extravaganza.

Organisers, including Geldof, had hoped to host the show at the Eiffel Tower, but it was branded a "logistical nightmare", with security being one of the biggest concerns.

But undeterred promoter HARVEY GOLDSMITH immediately expressed an interest in the ornate 17th century Versailles Palace, and, despite objections, has now secured it as the venue where such stars as Jamiroquai and YOUSSOU N'DOUR will perform.

Geldof says, "We need an iconic building to represent the wealth of our countries. There is a great, rich symbolism. In a global event like this, you must talk symbols.

"Also, I wanted a nice place to stay for the night."

The goal of the 2 July (05) concerts, also to be held in Berlin, London, Philadelphia, Rome, Tokyo, Toronto and Johannesburg, is to push for a political solution for African poverty ahead of a summit of Group of Eight industrialised countries next month (JUL05).

Destiny's Child, Mariah Carey, SIR Elton John, Annie Lennox, Sting, JOSS STONE, MAROON 5 and Craig David are among the host of stars who have agreed to perform at the shows.