THE NORTH EAST’S biggest music festival will welcome a famed actor, writer and DJ to the decks this summer.
Craig Charles will bring The Craig Charles Funk and Soul Club to Hardwick Live Festival when it returns to Hardwick Hall Hotel, Sedgefield, at County Durham from 17 to 18 August.
And fans can hear hits from as early as the 60s to the current club classics when he performs on the Discovery Stage on Sunday.
The Craig Charles Funk and Soul Club was created for BBC 6 Music’s primetime Saturday night slot in 2002 and he began touring the show six years later, playing at various festivals and nightclubs around the UK and beyond.
The DJ is also known for his celebrated roles on Red Dwarf and Coronation Street, for presenting shows including Robot Wars and The Gadget Show and his voiceover work on Takeshi’s Castle.
John Adamson, who owns Hardwick Hall Hotel, is confident Craig Charles’ set will be a big hit with festival-goers.
“Craig Charles has a great stage presence and I think he’ll create an amazing atmosphere on Sunday,” said John.
“I’m a big fan of his show and it’ll be fantastic to bring this to our festival-goers at Hardwick Live this year.
“I’m sure he will give the crowd a range of hits from across the ages and it will definitely be one fans that won’t want to miss.”
Headlining the main stage this year are Manic Street Preachers on Saturday, followed by James on Sunday.
The Zutons, Lisa Stansfield, The Sherlocks, Ziggy Marley, Stiff Little Fingers, Billy Bragg and Sister Sledge featuring Kathy Sledge will also perform across the weekend.
This year’s festival will feature club brands Glitterbox and Retro at a new dance arena, sets from local DJs at The Dome, a variety of acts joining Craig Charles on the Discovery Stage and a BBC Tees Introducing stage, giving a platform to ten of the region’s rising stars over the two days.
Tickets for this year’s Hardwick Live Festival are currently on sale at £55 for one day or £99 for both days. Concessions are available for children and 13-17-year-olds.
Camping and glamping options are also available for those who want to immerse themselves in the festival experience.
For more information or to book tickets, visit www.hardwicklive.co.uk.