MORE than 100 talented performers will be taking part in a virtual concert this weekend.

Cockermouth Live! was due to be taking place but has had to be cancelled as a result of coronavirus. Since announcing they were going to do an online version, the organisers have been delighted with the response.

Bob Pritchard, chairman of the festival team, said: "We have been overwhelmed by the volume and variety of contributions that have been pouring in for the Youtube broadcast on Saturday, 8 till late. Everything from dancing in the streets (literally) to live pastel art, from solos to rock bands to brass bands to choirs, from folk to jazz and blues, featuring performers of all ages, from the Kirkgate Youth theatre to the Castlegate Ladies.

"We’re delighted that the contributions we’ve received reflect the huge range of talent that Cockermouth Live! showcases."

The team originally planned to have a two-hour virtual concert but have been contacted by so many people wanting to play their part that it has been extended until late into the evening.

In addition to many local performers, poet, broadcaster and stand-up Ian Macmillan, who was to have headlined Friday night, has recorded a special lock-down poem for Cockermouth Virtually Live!, and Northumbrian Piper Kathryn Tickell (Saturday’s booked headliner) has sent organisers a tune with her Trio.

A full list of participants can be found on the website at www.cockermouthfestival.org. The concert will be broadcast on You Tube on the Cockermouth Live! channel (youtu.be/MVW_BJKIBT8) starting at 8pm on Saturday, July 4.