THE South Tyneside Festival’s Sunday concert series is set to end with a bang, with the news that top singer Rebecca Ferguson has been added to the final show line-up.

And that means that the show on Sunday, July 29 will be jam-packed with superstar singers, as the former X Factor finalist joins Heather Small, Atomic Kitten and Sam Lavery to close the concert series.

Last week, it was announced that singer Lemar had to pull out from the show, due to a prior commitment, and since the news South Tyneside Council has pulled out all the stops to find a suitable replacement.

Since she first appeared on television eight years ago, Liverpool-born Rebecca has continued to make an impact and has now appeared in front of audiences across the UK, Europe and the USA.

Her first record-breaking album, Heaven, has been followed by three further albums which showcased her versatility and singing skill.

Councillor Alan Kerr, deputy leader of South Tyneside Council with responsibility for Culture and Leisure, said he was delighted that Rebecca Ferguson was now on the bill for the last show.

“We already had a fantastic line-up for our final concert but the addition of Rebecca Ferguson will make it truly memorable,” he said.

“She has an incredible voice and it is very exciting that we have been able to secure her appearance at Bents Park to complete what has been an amazing year of summer shows.”

Rebecca will join former M People singer Heather Small and leading girl band Atomic Kitten on 29 July.

Heather Small hit the big time in the early 90s as the soulful voice of M People. The band’s first hit, Moving on Up, was an instant success and was quickly followed by One Night in Heaven, Don’t Look Any Further and Search for the Hero.

Also taking to the stage is girl band Atomic Kitten, who last appeared at Bents Park in 2015 along with Former X Factor finalist Sam Lavery, from County Durham.

Admission to the concerts remain free of charge, but fans can choose to upgrade to a Priority Plus ticket.

Priced at £5 each, these provide earlier entry to the park to pick the best spot, along with access to a dedicated bar area and toilets. However, there will only be a limited number available, and they must be bought in advance.

Priority Plus tickets are available strictly on a first come, first served basis, and under- fives will be admitted free with a ticket-holding adult.

Tickets for the Heather Small and Atomic Kitten show with special guest, Rebecca Ferguson, are available to buy from Ticketmaster until Sunday, July 22 at www.ticketmaster.co.uk/southtynesidefestival or by calling 0844-844-0444.

They will still remain on sale at Shop @ The Word at Market Place, South Shields after that date while stocks last.

For more information and full listings visit: www.southtynesidefestival.co.uk or follow the social media accounts on Twitter @stynesideevents and Facebook /southtynesideevents