Former Spandau Ballet frontman Tony Hadley has been announced as the headliner of the highly-anticipated North East Oyster Festival when it returns later this year.
The day of live entertainment, food and fundraising will be back for its 22nd year at Hardwick Hall Hotel in County Durham on Friday, September 26, when Tony will take to the stage to perform some of the 80s supergroup's greatest hits including Gold, True and Through the Barricades.
This year's line-up also includes comedian Joe Pasquale, The Dolly Show, Irish music favourites Emerald Thieves, JJ Galway Band and DJ Brandon Block, with Steve Walls hosting the event.
Hundreds are expected to attend the day, which this year will raise money for Heel & Toe Children's Charity to help provide free and reduced-cost therapy to children with physical disabilities and complex needs across the North East. The festival has raised more than £2.5m over the last two decades for local good causes.
The glamorous event will see guests enjoy a Champagne reception and a three-course fruits de mer lunch, with fresh oyster stalls and complimentary lager, beer and wine throughout the day, which runs from 11.30am to 6pm. Tickets are priced at £200 plus VAT, and can be booked by emailing events@hardwickhallhotel.co.uk or calling 01740 620253.
John Adamson, owner of Hardwick Hall and Ramside Estates, said: "Tony Hadley is a true legend of British music and we’re absolutely thrilled to have him headlining this year’s Oyster Festival. He'll bring a real sense of style and showmanship to the day and we know his live set will be a huge highlight for our guests."
The Oyster Festival follows a line-up of events at Hardwick Hall this summer, with The Big Fat Greek Fest taking place the week before on Saturday, September 20 where guests will tuck into a Greek cocktail and meze meal while being entertained by live singers, dancers and acrobats.
And from Friday, August 15 until Sunday, August 17, the North East's 'biggest music festival' will be held in the grounds as Hardwick Festival 2025 kicks off, headlined by the Scissor Sisters on Friday, Pet Shop Boys on Saturday and Olly Murs on Sunday. Tickets are available to buy via Ticketek now.
Other events at Hardwick Hall throughout the summer include a Bottomless Sax Brunch with afternoon tea and live saxophone music and A Murder In Wonderland murder mystery party in June, as well as a Wellness Yoga and Brunch day in May. Rooms at Hardwick Hall are available to book directly as well as through Booking.com.
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