THE STAR OF one of the most successful bands in UK pop history is heading to a South Shields festival this summer.
The popular Sunday concerts series returns to Bents Park in July, as part of the South Tyneside Festival, organised by South Tyneside Council.
And Marti Pellow, former lead singer of Wet Wet Wet, has been revealed as the headline act kicking off the series at the first show this year, which takes place on 14 July.
Celebrated for his role in the group as well as a successful solo career, Marti Pellow has enjoyed worldwide fame, creating chart-topping, multi-platinum albums, holding the record for the longest number one in UK chart history and creating one of the four biggest selling songs in the UK of all time.
The award-winning singer-songwriter has also found success as a musical theatre star, starring in hit productions in the West End and on Broadway.
“I always love performing in the North East and I’m delighted to be opening the first of the Sunday concerts at the South Tyneside Festival this year,” said Marti.
“Outdoor concerts have a great atmosphere and it’s sure to be a fantastic summer event.”
The concerts are free to attend but anyone hoping to secure a prime viewing spot can purchase a Priority Plus Ticket, which must be purchased in advance.
Priced at £6, these will allow fans earlier entry to the park and access to a dedicated bar area and toilets, with only a limited number available.
Councillor Ken Stephenson, Mayor of South Tyneside, is confident that this year’s concerts will be some of the best yet.
“We are really excited to have Marti Pellow heading to Bents Park this summer and I’m sure he will be a very popular choice with music fans in the North East,” said Councillor Stephenson.
“The Sunday concerts are always a highlight of the festival and I can’t think of anyone better to kick them off this year.”
This year’s Sunday concerts are supported by BBC Newcastle 95.4FM and sponsored by Port of Tyne, Colmans Seafood Temple, South Tyneside College and The Sea Hotel.
Tickets for the first show are available to buy now from Ticketmaster at www.ticketmaster.co.uk/southtynesidefestivalor by calling 0844 844 0444.
They can also be purchased in person at Shop @ The Word in Market Place, South Shields.
For more information and full listings visit: www.southtynesidefestival.co.uk or follow the social media accounts on Twitter @stynesideevents and Facebook /southtynesideevents.