A stellar collection of folk musicians is being lined-up to perform a special one-off tribute at a Cumbrian festival this summer.

Roy Bailey, the doyen of English folk music, was patron of the Music on the Marr festival up to his death last November at the age of 83.

Audiences at the Castle Carrock festival enjoyed performances from the singer for many years - and organisers have moved to fill the gap his passing has left in their 2019 line up.

The Love You Leave Behind Collective is now set to take centre stage on the Saturday of the four-day festival. It will feature interpretations of the songs Bailey made famous, from his contemporary Leon Rosselson, son-in-law Martin Simpson and political singer Frankie Armstrong.

Artists who have agreed to join this unique tribute include Ray Hearne, Jim Woodland, Janet Russell, Sandra Kerr, Andy Cutting, Nancy Kerr, James Fagan and festival favourites Marc Block and Stew Simpson.

Bailey received an MBE for services to folk music, which he returned six years later in protest at the Government’s policy on the Middle East. Tony Benn cited him as “the greatest socialist folk singer of his generation”.

Festival director Richard Johnson said it was testament to Bailey’s legacy that so many well-known artists were keen to play a part.

He said: “We are delighted, but not surprised, by the response to the idea of paying tribute to a man who did so much for music and his fellow man.

“He was also a huge friend to our festival. Roy loved coming to Cumbria each year.”

The festival, which runs from July 18-21, this year celebrates its 10th anniversary.

Headliners for the four nights will be Scottish bands Tide Lines, and Blazin’ Fiddles, Newcastle’s Baghdaddies, and the multi award-winning Merry Hell.

n Visit http://www.musiconthemarr.com for tickets and more information.