By Linzi Watson

Last updated 14:48, Thursday, 21 August 2008

CARLISLE Live is to be bigger and better than ever before with an arena-sized stage and pop royalty topping the bill.

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Boyzone

Veteran boy band Boyzone will headline this weekend’s event on a stage double the size of last year’s.

Chief executive of the Stobart Group, Andrew Tinkler, who is behind the two-day event, said: “I am really looking forward to it.

“I know Boyzone are really looking forward to playing and this is a great chance for people to see them live. McFly are looking forward to coming as well.

“This event is all about bringing these big acts to Carlisle. It is a family weekend and I hope people come along and relax and enjoy some great live music.”

Mr Tinkler added that the number of tickets sold so far is not yet known but the hospitality tent, which seats 350 people, has sold out for the entire weekend.

He also insisted that rain and mud would not dampen spirits and added that forecasts point to sunshine and special turf has been ordered – just in case.

 Boyzone will be joined on Saturday by classic quartet eScala and local singing sensation A.M.A.N.D.A who has just finished touring with the Irish heart-throbs.

The singer, from Crosby Garrett, who has been busy recording an album in LA, told the News & Star: “It is really good to come home. Touring with Boyzone has been hectic and it is lovely to come back to Carlisle.

“They are lovely lads and are great live so it should be a brilliant show.”

 A.M.A.N.D.A, whose album is due to be released next year, has recorded a song with US R’n’B singer Mario.

Mr Tinkler added: “We have some great local performers as well proving just how much talent Carlisle has.

Britain’s Got Talent star Andrew Johnston is performing on Saturday, the same day as this year’s Stobart Factor Final. A member of Boyzone and Louis Walsh will join Andrew Tinkler to find the winner.

There will be two full days of DJs and MCs, with Ironik topping the bill on Sunday, riding high in the charts with the Stay With Me. He will be joined by acts including the electric DJ Dazzo, DJ Q & MC Bones and DJ Krafty.

In the children’s zone – a new addition – and around Bitts Park there will be parades, workshops and games, including the Bread and Butter Theatre Company and the Barracudas Carnival Parade. There will also be a funfair and fireworks each night.

The event raises money for the Richard Rose Academy and CFM’s Cash for Kids Appeal. Tickets are still available from www.carlislelive.co.uk or the box office on 0871 424 4444.

A ticket office is being set up at gate two of the Dacre Road entrance and this will be open today and Friday from 5pm to 9pm, Saturday and Sunday from 9am to 4pm.

LWatson@cngroup.co.uk