Eddi Reader and Hothouse Flowers to headline Larne festival

Young stars from The Music Yard in Larne looking forward to sharing the bill with Hothouse Flowers and Eddi Reader at the Friends’ Goodwill Music Festival in May.

Scottish singer Eddi Reader, famed for hit singles ‘Perfect’ and ‘Find My Love’ with her former band Fairground Attraction, will take to the stage with Dublin rock band Hothouse Flowers topping the bill.

This year’s festival in the Co Antrim town is preceded by a day of free activities for all ages to mark the 75th anniversary of VE Day.

On Friday, May 8, Sandy Bay Playing fields will be transformed by the sights, sounds and colours of World War 2 vehicles, equipment and historical re-enactors, with War Years Remembered bringing VE Day to life for modern generations.

On stage will be The Swingtime Starlets, 1st Larne Old Boys Silver Band and Zolene and the ALS Band.

At Broadway on Saturday afternoon, the live music stage will host a variety of acts from young ones starting out (The Music Yard) to more seasoned performers as well as street entertainment.

Saturday evening’s concert at the Market Yard is ticket-only and features Eddi Reader, Hothouse Flowers and Sionan (tickets are just £12 plus booking fee at www.fgw.eventbrite.com), while Sunday’s programme has no admission charge and will feature a cookery theatre with Paula McIntyre and Slemish Market Supper Club, street artists, bubble artists and activities for all ages.

The music on stage includes The Swing Gals, Lisa Dawson and Coach.

Some cafes in the town centre will host live music sessions on Friday evening to kick off the growing festival.

The Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Councillor Maureen Morrow, said: “Every year the festival goes from strength to strength and we believe our two headline artists will not only appeal to our local community, but also attract festival-goers from all over Ireland and Scotland.

“Eddi Reader has a strong Ulster-Scots connection with her Robert Burns repertoire and will have an affinity with many local people. Hothouse Flowers have been a household name since the 80s and this will be the first time for both artists to perform in Larne.

“We always like to nurture local talent and are looking forward to welcoming county Armagh’s Sionán, who won Belfast’s singer/songwriter competition in 2018, to support Eddi and Hothouse Flowers.

“We are delighted to give the community and all those who visit Larne over the course of the three-day festival a real sense of celebrating the 75th Anniversary of VE Day, while enjoying music from top bill artists and performers.”

Further details at: www.midandeastantrim.gov.uk/friendsgoodwill