Sam Fender and Sting encourage North Shields residents to attend charity festival

A one-day-festival will be held this summer for an important cause, which is being backed by iconic North East music legends.

The brand-new music event taking place on Saturday June 8 at North Tyneside’s Salt Market Social, is named The Strangest Party and has been organised by Jeri-Marie Sumner and Jon Corbett in aid of the Teenage Cancer Trust. 

The event will see music-lovers in the North East come together for an spectacular extravaganza and charity fundraiser, in honour of North Shields singer and producer Martin O’Nions who tragically passed away last year after a cancer battle.

Two of the most iconic musicians to come from the North East, Sam Fender and Sting have backed the event, and expressed their sadness at Martin’s passing. 

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Fender said: “Some good musician friends of mine are putting on a one day festival in memory of a really good mate of ours, Marty O'Nions, who sadly passed away recently,” 

“Marty was a legend and ran a music studio in North Shields with Phil Martin called Notes. Marty was a great mentor to me and massively helped my early career… without him I wouldn’t be where I am today.”

Sting, whose niece Jeri-Marie is one of the organisers of the event also commented: ““Marty was taken away too soon and I know Jeri and her friends are going all out to do something special in his memory. Go buy your tickets, enjoy some music on the Tyne and raise a toast to a great man.”

Local performers will take to the stage for the event including Blor (a Blur tribute band), Jango Flash, The National Anthems, Geoff Mull and Revolver. 

Alongside the music there will also be an exhibition of vintage vehicles, exclusive prize auctions, street food and craft ales. 

A spokesperson for The Strangest Party said: “Indeed as the sun sets and the music fades, remember that every note, every cheer, and every bid contributes to the Teenage Cancer Trust. 

“Join us in making a difference and supporting young lives affected by cancer while enjoying some of the best live music the region has to offer.” Tickets for The Strangest Party are available to purchase now and are priced at £15. For more information and to book tickets, please visit saltmarketsocial.co.uk.