PIPER Kathryn Tickell is to headline this year’s Holy Island Festival.

The two-time winner of the prestigious BBC Radio 2 Folk Artist of the Year award will perform with her group Superfolkus at the Village Hall on Sunday, July 16.

More than 12,000 visitors are expected on the island for the festival, which spans three successive weekends in July.

Kathryn Tickell said: “I’m very much looking forward to playing at the Holy Island Festival.

“It’s a magical place. I’ve been a visitor to the island many times, and love the atmosphere and the very special feeling you get – particularly if you’re lucky enough to be able to stay there when the tide comes in”.

Lindisfarne drummer Ray Laidlaw and frontman Billy Mitchell also appear as special guest with Billy’s son Tom Mitchell and his group The Borrowed Band at the Village Hall on Sunday, July 9.

More than 5,000 visitors attended the Holy Island festival held last year.

Chair of the Holy Island Festival group Reverend Paul Collins said: “Celebrations in 2013 for the Lindisfarne Gospels identified an interest in more events for visitors, islanders and residents across Northumberland and the Borders.

“Building on the success of the last two years, this year’s Holy Island Festival has expanded to take place over three successive weekends.

“We have lined up even more great performers including music, singing and dancing, offering something for everyone.”

For full festival listings and tickets, please visit holyislandfestival.org.