Jarrow pub gets set to hold 10th annual band festival

A Jarrow pub is gearing up to hold its 10th annual band festival this Bank Holiday weekend.
Band Riversyde who will kick off this year's band fest.Band Riversyde who will kick off this year's band fest.
Band Riversyde who will kick off this year's band fest.

The Monkton Band Fest will return to The Lord Nelson in Monkton Village tomorrow, Saturday, August 25, from 2pm.

Kicking off this year's event is up-and-coming band Riversyde who won a competition to be the act that will open the popular festival.

Acts performing at a previous band festival.Acts performing at a previous band festival.
Acts performing at a previous band festival.
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The pub held a competition to Facebook to attract local young people from the age of 16 to take part in the event.

After a number of entries, Riversyde was chosen as one of the two finalists to put to a public vote to decide the winner.

More than 2,000 people voted, with Riversyde coming out on top to be the festival opener.

They will be followed by a great line-up of local talent including The Good Souls, Panic Report, Albino Crocodiles and Sound Cartel.

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Children will also be in for a treat, as the event features a range of entertainment out in the marquee. There will also be a barbecue.

Lesley Huntley, owner of The Lord Nelson, said it looks set to be a great family event.

She said: "This is our tenth anniversary and once again we will be asking for donations to support the Monkton Leek and Flower Show.

"Local band Riversyde, made up of three young performers from Hebburn, have won our competition to kick off the band fest on the big stage,

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"The competition went really well and we had loads of people voting.

"We just wanted it to be a way to encourage young people in the field of music and give them a shot at performing.

"They will join a number of South Tyneside bands who will perform on the day.

"There is always a nice atmosphere and it is a family-orientated event with children's entertainment such a face painting.

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"It's always been well attended over the years so we are hoping for a good day."

The event will from 2pm until around 9.30pm, with each band expected to play a set of around 45 minutes.

Entry is free, but visitors are encouraged to make a £1 donation to the Monkon Leek and Flower Show.