A POP punk band is urging its loyal local supporters to attend its first ever headlining show at a major festival held in the North-East for up-and-coming musical talent.

Martha, who are from Pity Me, near Durham, are topping the bill at this year’s Evolution Emerging Festival in Newcastle, on June 9.

The four-piece band, currently touring in the United States, will take to the stage at the Tyne Bar for the tenth annual gathering.

Guitar player and vocalist Daniel Ellis said: “It’s always a great vibe and a lot of energy from crowds at Evolution Emerging, so I’m excited to experience that again.

“It’s also great to be involved in a festival that celebrates creativity and music that is produced in the North-East.

“It’s fantastic that Evolution Emerging has been going for ten years now and we need to celebrate the music scene in the North-East and provide support for local artists.

“Over the last few years, we have seen a significant cut in arts funding, especially in the North and it’s important that the North East is recognised a cultural and creative place.”

After singles on their own Discount Horse label and Odd Box Records, Martha’s debut album, Courting Strong, was released on the Fortuna Pop! label and Salinas Records in 2014.

Martha’s rise to fame on the independent circuit has seen the band offered other headlining UK dates, as well as being invited on their first US tour.

Tonight, the band is due to play in Milwaukee with gigs in St Louis, Columbus and Pittsburgh scheduled before they return to the region.

Mr Ellis said: “The last 12 months have been really cool for Martha and we’ve had the opportunity to do a lot of exciting stuff.”

To buy tickets and for more information visit generator.org.uk/evolution-emerging