The line-up for a series of performances held at Hexham’s bandstand this summer has been announced.

Core Music in Hexham are co-ordinating a programme of free performances which will be held at the bandstand in Sele Park.

The initiative, funded by Hexham Town Council, aims to make the bandstand a place of music again.

The performances will take place between July 22 and September 12, on Thursday evenings and Sunday afternoons.

Tonight's performance, starting at 6pm, will be by Blueglass maestros The Often Herd.

The lineup so far is:

July 22, 6pm: The Often Herd

July 25, 1pm: Sam Shields

July 29, 6pm: Dean Parker

August 1, 12pm: The Little Big Blue

August 5, 5pm: En Core

August 8, 1pm: Tom Cantwell and Caroline Guirr

August 12, 5pm: Mark Williams and Paul Susans

August 15, 1pm: Saul Rose

Mike Colman, from Core Music, said: "The reason we are doing it is because a lot of music events have been affected by the pandemic and a lot of indoor gigs have not been possible.

"We felt that a good way to look at this was to use an iconic venue like the bandstand to put on a series of gigs over the summer whilst the weather is good."

Mike said it was important to pay the artists performing, which the town council's funding has allowed them to do.

"We have been overwhelmed by the response from musicians," Mike said. "We are looking forward to it."

Mike thanked his colleague John Hirst who he said had worked very hard to co-ordinate the sessions.

Mayor of Hexham Derek Kennedy said: "This is about bringing some fun to the town and bringing the bandstand into full operation for people in the town.

"Bring your friends and family, some food and drink, and your dancing shoes and have a good time."