An array of performers will star in a concert in Maryport tomorrow to mark the 100th anniversary of the Battle of the Somme’s first day.

Hundreds of people are expected to attend the event at St Mary’s Church on Church Street.

The concert will commemorate people from Allerdale who lost their lives in World War One.

Representatives from parishes, churches and town councils across Allerdale, town mayors, the House of Commons, the House of Lords, the air cadets, the army cadets and the sea cadets are all due to attend.

Workington MP Sue Hayman, leader of Allerdale council Alan Smith and the church’s vicar Reverend Susan McKendry are also set to be there. Cumbria’s Lord Lieutenant Claire Hensman has been invited.

The concert ties in with the release of a new book by Kirkbride author David King called The Pity of War.

Pupils from Netherhall School will read extracts from the book and the musical performers include Antony McGuckin, the Flimby Male Voice Choir and the Flimby Sax Horn Band.

Cockermouth Band and Scottish National Opera singer Rachel Hynes will also perform.

A flag parade will take place for the Royal British Legion and youth groups will also be involved.

Mr King, who is organising the event and will be the MC, said: “We’re very excited because one of the things about it is the amount of involvement the young people will be having.

“I know it’s 100 years ago, but if these men hadn’t gone out and fallen there would be no free speech in this country.”

The concert starts at 7pm and is free to attend, but donations can be made.