By Gillian Ellison

Last updated at 12:58, Thursday, 01 December 2011

Superstar Katherine Jenkins is returning to open next year’s Whitehaven Diamond Jubilee Festival.

Katherine Jenkins

Ever since the dazzling mezzo-soprano performed in the town last year, she made it clear she wanted to return. And, true to her word, she will take centre stage to kick off the special three-day event with a concert on Friday, June 1.

She said: “I will never forget the last time I performed in Whitehaven as it was such a special and touching concert. I’m already looking forward to seeing everyone again next year.”

The festival promises to have an even bigger and better party atmosphere, coinciding with the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee.

Gerard Richardson, the festival’s chief organiser, said: “For Whitehaven to attract such a megastar is phenomenal and then for her to want to come back again, it couldn’t get any better."

Her performance last year was very emotional, coming just weeks after Derrick Bird’s shooting rampage.

Next year’s festival runs from June 1-3 and once again will feature three big music concerts in anarena on Whitehaven Harbour.

Tickets for Katherine Jenkins, priced £49, are available from Friday from www.thewhitehavenfestival.co.uk.

First published at 11:30, Thursday, 01 December 2011
Published by http://www.newsandstar.co.uk