Sun shone on music fans as summer gigs continue at Bents Park

This week saw singer Roachford, The Fizz – featuring two of the original members of Bucks Fizz – and band Scouting for Girls take to the stage.

The 20,000-strong crowd was warmed up by local singer Jen Cherene, helping them get into the music festival mood ahead of the main acts.

People of all ages joined in the fun as Roachford belted out his songs Ride the Storm and Feel For You Baby before Cheryl Baker and Mike Nolan brought back the ’80s vibe with a megamix of hit songs including Girls Just Want to Have Fun and Livin’ on a Prayer.

The duo, who were performing without third singer Jay Aston, who is currently recovering from an operation, performed some of their own hits including Land of Make Believe and Making Your Mind Up – which also included the removal of Cheryl’s skirt to reveal an event shorter version.

This week’s headline act was Scouting for Girls, who had the crowd jumping and singing along to songs Elvis Ain’t Dead, James Bond, Live and Let Die, and a version of the Neil Diamond classic Sweet Caroline.

They ended with hit single She’s So Lovely.

The gig was the second time the band, who praised the crowd and the atmosphere, have played at the seafront park.

All four acts were greeted by the Mayor of South Tyneside, Coun Ken Stephenson.

He said: “It’s great to see so many people turning out for the events. The weather is amazing and the atmosphere is brilliant.

“It’s great to see so many people taking advantage of he priority tickets also.”

Next week’s gig will feature singers Heather Small and Rebecca Ferguson, and girl group Atomic Kitten.

Gates will open for priority ticket holders at noon with the main gates opening at 12.45pm.

Entry is still free into the park.