A mix of chart-topping stars and regional favourites have been unveiled for a popular North East festival due to make its return this summer.
Crowds are set to return for a summer of live music and seaside celebrations when the South Tyneside Festival is back.
Its series of Sunday Concerts at Bents Park promising a mix musical acts, alongside a packed programme of live events.
This year’s concerts will begin on July 19, with a headline performance from South Shields’ own Joe McElderry.
He will be joined by singer Sonia and local favourites Shelley Stevens and Channy.
Councillor Jay Potts, Mayor of South Tyneside, said: "Our team has once again come up with a fantastic line-up, with something for everyone."
"While we have had to introduce a cost this year, it remains incredibly affordable and offers fantastic value, particularly to be able to see artistes of this calibre.
"The concerts turn a real spotlight on South Shields and everything the Borough to offer and we are looking forward to welcoming not only local residents but visitors from across the region and beyond."
July 26 will see 80s icons ABC take to the stage, known for hits such as The Look of Love, Poison Arrow, and When Smokey Sings.
They will be joined by Chesney Hawkes of The One and Only fame and Nuromantica.
The series will close on August 2 with a high-energy show from DJ Judge Jules, who will perform a set of dancefloor favourites with a full live band.
Ultrabeat, one of the UK’s top commercial dance acts, will also appear, with more names set to be announced.
Each concert will feature additional talent from South Tyneside and the wider region.
This year marks the first time the concerts will be fully ticketed.
General admission is £5 for those aged 17 to 65, £2 for ages 11 to 16 and over 66, and free for children 10 and under.
Tickets can be purchased at www.visitsouthtyneside.co.uk and will be scanned on entry.
Organisers say the ticket pricing is designed to keep the event accessible while supporting its continued delivery.
Read more
Tyneside Metro grinding machines named after well-known singer and actress
Yorkshire stately home to host family activities over May bank holiday
New ‘Awesome Park’ print brings memories of former home back for Boro fans
Cllr Potts said: "The concerts also showcase the huge wealth of local talent we have and giving local performers the opportunity to not share the stage with nationally and internationally known musicians but to also showcase their musical skills to a large audience."
Beyond the Sunday Concerts, the South Tyneside Festival includes live music at the Amphitheatre, the annual Summer Parade, Proms in the Park, and Kids Fun-Fest.
The full event programme is available on the festival website.
