DEACON Blue are the latest big name to be added to the line-up for this years Wickham Festival.

The Scottish rock band are due to appear at the festival taking place from August 5-8.

Playing hits like Real Gone Kid, the band will close the Saturday night show following Van Morrison who is headlining.

This is said to be another coup for organisers who are now expecting the remaining Saturday tickets to sell out quickly.

Festival chief Peter Chegwyn said: “We are absolutely delighted to be able to get Deacon Blue as I know they will be hugely popular with our fans. And that addition is our way of saying thank you to all those who have stuck with us and supported the festival through a very tough time for all of us.

“We have a very loyal following and thousands rolled over their tickets from last year or bought well in advance as a show of faith so we are now aiming to put on our best event yet.

“After more than a year of lockdown and restrictions, people are desperate to get out again and to enjoy top quality live music. With a superb line-up and our unique family atmosphere, it is little wonder we have seen record sales. We want this to be a party to remember!"

Fairport Convention, who recently were forced to cancel their own Cropredy Festival, have stepped in to replace the Waterboys who postponed until next year.

Also added to the Saturday line-up is Moya Brennan 'The voice of Clannad' while Liam O'Maonlai and Peter O'Toole of the band 'Hothouse Flowers' will be appearing on the Sunday in place of The Slambovian Circus of Dreams.

Skerryvore will appear on the Sunday instead of Lil' Jimmy Reed with the Troublenotes also prevented from travelling.

Other artists include Lindisfarne, Nick Lowe, the South, Show of Hands, Seth Lakeman, Nine Below Zero and the SAS Band including Steve Harley (Cockney Rebel), Tom Robinson, Graham Gouldman (10CC), Toyah, Madeline Bell and Spike Edney (Queen) – plus many more.