A SOUTH SHIELDS-born musician is returning to his roots from across the globe to perform in his home town.
Lee Gray was a well-known performer across the UK and Europe, as one half of the popular North East duo, Woodface, before moving to New Zealand in 2011.
The singer has become a huge star, performing at festivals across New Zealand and even performing the opening song at the FIFA Under 20s World Cup in 2015, which he wrote and recorded.
And now he’s returning to the UK for a handful of special gigs, which includes a performance at Bents Park as part of this year’s South Tyneside Festival.
The singer takes to the stage on 4 August as one of the support acts for singer Gabrielle – and he’s delighted to be back.
“I an originally from South Shields and used to go to Bents Park as a kid so I’m stoked to be playing there,” he said.
“I originally went to New Zealand for a year out, which turned into two – and now I’ve been there for eight years, with two Kiwi kids.
“I have established myself on the New Zealand music scene but it’s fantastic to get this chance to play here.”
Councillor Alan Kerr, Lead Member for Culture and Leisure at South Tyneside Council, said Lee would be a welcome addition to the event.
“We have already got an amazing line-up for this year’s festival but it is always very exciting to have local talent, and particularly someone who has come from the other side of the world to be with us,” he said.
“We are very glad Lee is able to be part of the day and we look forward to welcoming him back home.”
Lee will be on the bill for the final concert of this year’s festival, which are free to attend but fans looking to secure a prime viewing spot can purchase a Priority Plus ticket, priced at £6.
Only a limited number are available and tickets must be purchased in advance, which allows fans earlier access to the park and access to a dedicated bar area and toilets.
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.
Marti Pellow, former lead singer of Wet Wet Wet is headlining the first of the concerts on 14 July, followed by the Lightning Seeds and Phats and Small on 21 July.
On 28 July Midge Ure and Nick Heyward will take to the stage, followed by Gabrielle on 4 August.
Tickets for the shows are available to buy now from Ticketmaster at www.ticketmaster.co.uk/southtynesidefestival or by calling 0844 844 0444.