Live music is back at Maurice Lee Memorial Park, with the bandstand the venue for a variety of concerts during August and September.

Following on from the success of the Music in the Park programme held in 2019, South Derbyshire District Council has revived the popular programme, with four events confirmed.

This time, instead of just staging concerts on selected Sundays throughout the summer holidays, there will be two midweek shows, specifically aimed at families with young children.

These will feature additional free entertainment so that families can enjoy a whole afternoon in the park, perhaps with a picnic and enjoy the other facilities available, such as the playground area.

Steps will be taken to reduce the risk of Covid-19 spreading.

The Music in the Park summer programme starts on Wednesday 11th August, 2-4pm with the Kings

Palace Caribbean Steel Band with their authentic and happy tropical vibes perfect for creating a party vibe.

Children's characters Spider Man and Rapunzel will be making several appearances to greet the audience and there will be a bubble performer delighting the crowds with spectacular bubble displays.

• Sunday 22nd August will bring Uttoxeter Town Brass Band back to the park with their music from around the UK and Ireland.

They are a self-funding, community brass band welcoming players of all ages and abilities.

• Wednesday 25th August will see Tropical Vibes, another steel band who have performed across the UK and Europe.

They will be sharing the unique sounds of Caribbean carnival to add a dash of tropical rhythm, guaranteed to get everyone's hips swaying!

Batman and Princess Belle will also be there to join in the party, as well as a bubble performer.

• Sunday 5th September sees Melbourne Town Band completing the music programme.

They are a friendly, non-contesting community-based brass band.

Everyone is encouraged to bring rugs, chairs and picnics along to the 2-hour sessions.

There will even be ice cream and cold drinks available to purchase.

Councillor, Gordon Rhind, Chairman of South Derbyshire District Council Housing and Community Services Committee, said: "As live events begin to reappear and people cautiously begin to fill their calendars once again, these free Music in the Park sessions are a timely arrival.

"They offer local residents and visitors an opportunity to not only savour live music in the idyllic setting of the park, but also feel safe in the knowledge that organisers appreciate that everyone feels differently about the relaxation of the government guidance.

"So, in response, we will still be incorporating Covid-safe measures for everyone's continued safety."