THE world’s premier Beatles tribute band will take to the stage in Bitts Park in Carlisle ahead of headline act Madness.

The Bootleg Beatles have been announced as one of three acts who will be supporting the ska legends at their Carlisle gig this summer.

Chris Difford and Cattle and Cane are also set to perform at the concert on July 21.

It was announced this week the gig would not take place on June 9 as planned due to “circumstances beyond the control of the artist and promoter”. But SSD Concerts said it hopes the “stellar support bill” will make the event great value for customers.

As well as looking forward to Madness hits including It Must Be Love, Our House and House of Fun, fans will relive the sounds of the sixties through The Bootleg Beatles.

The band, who started out when there was no such thing as a tribute act, have performed across the world. Previous appearances in Cumbria include performances at The Sands Centre in 2015 and 2016 and Solfest in 2012.

They said: "We’re delighted to be returning to beautiful Carlisle. We’ve played the Sands Centre many times.

"We’re delighted to be joining the lineup for will be a fab day in Bitts Park.”

The Devon-based act perform tracks from right across the Beatles’ career. They have shared stages with numerous notable contemporary artists including Oasis, Rod Stewart, David Bowie, Iggy Pop and Manic Street Preachers.

Chris Difford, one of the founding members of Squeeze, will also perform. The talented songwriter has written lyrics for music by acts including Elton John, Jools Holland and Wet Wet Wet.

Teeside’s Cattle & Cane have met national acclaim thanks to their studio albums Mirrors and Home.