Second Quarry concert axed

An annual concert in Shrewsbury's Quarry has been axed this year after organisers struggled to book artists to perform. A two-day event had been due to be held in July.

Now the annual 80s pop concert will go ahead on July 9 only - the second event, also organised by promoters IML Concerts, the next day, has been cancelled.

The event, part of the Summer Seasons, was held for the first time last year when Jools Holland performed on the Saturday.

Keith Louch, director of IML, said they had been unable to contract artists for the Saturday night and as such the 80s party night would be the only show that weekend at The Quarry.

He said: "We have made a number of inquiries and offers to artists to engage them for the Saturday.

"Some are not touring this summer, others are in the studio recording albums, overseas on tour or already performing elsewhere on that night, and as such we have been unable to agree terms with any management.

"It has been a very frustrating couple of months and we are very disappointed not to be able to put on a second night.

"We can still leave the infrastructure in for the Saturday. If anyone has any ideas or would like to promote their own show please get in touch."

He said tickets were selling as quickly for the concert as they did last summer when 10,000 people enjoyed the show.

Headlining the show is Tony Hadley, who will be joined on stage by multi-million selling artists, Rick Astley, ABC, Howard Jones and Mica Paris and Go West.

Advance tickets cost £32.50 or £15 for children aged five to 15. To book call (01603) 660444 or visit www.imlconcerts.co.uk