JOE MCELDERRY will headline an afternoon concert in South Shields next week in tribute to two South Shields youngsters who lost their lives in last year’s Manchester terrorist attack.

Chloe Rutherford, 17 and 19-year-old Liam Curry were among 22 people killed in the devastating bomb attack at Manchester Arena at the end of an Ariana Grande concert last May.

Now the youngsters’ home town is gearing up for the Together Forever event at Bents Park on the afternoon of Sunday, August 12, which will feature several local up and coming bands and singers along with the 2009 X Factor winner.

Hosted by Heart Radio’s Kelly Scott, the concert has been organised by businessman Chris Joyce and follows a similar event last year which was held at the South Shields Amphitheatre.

“Chloe and Liam were huge music fans and I can’t imagine a better way to help remember them than with a live concert,” he said. “Last year’s show was a big success and we knew straight away we wanted to do it again.

“This year we have enlisted the support of Joe McElderry who has been brilliant. As soon as we approached him he said yes and that it would be an honour for him to take part, which was wonderful news.”

The Together Forever Live concert will be held at Bents Park, South Shields from noon on Sunday, August 12, and is set to feature performances from Rivelino, Lauren Armour, Eve Simpson, Amy Ridley, Taylor Payne and DJ Curtis Robinson, along with Dan Elliott who will fly in from his home in Dublin for the event.

“This will be our second concert and we are aiming to make it an annual event going forward,” added Chris. “We are delighted that Joe, Dan and all of these other artists have jumped on board to offer support.

“Chloe and Liam were well liked and loved by a lot of people in and around South Tyneside, and I think this is a wonderful way to remember them.”

Advance tickets for Together Forever Live are available to buy now, priced at £5 each or £9.05 for a family of or group of three and can be purchased via the website, www.togetherforeverlive.com

There will also be the opportunity to buy tickets on the gate on the day, but advance booking is advised to get the best deal.