A DOUBLE platinum artist will headline the third installment of Colchester’s Anti Loo Roll Festival this September.

Lemar, who rose to fame on talent show Fame Academy, will be joined by Rick Parfitt Jr and a series of tribute acts.

The event will run over two days for the first time since its inception in 2021, with a Last Night of the Proms inspired evening on Friday, September 8.

Festival boss Peter Dutch said a 35 to 40-strong orchestra will perform on the night in Lower Castle Park.

Gazette: Sell out - last year's event attracted a 4,500-strong crowdSell out - last year's event attracted a 4,500-strong crowd (Image: Steve Brading)

The following day will see artists return to the main stage and deliver headline performances, despite the latest installment only featuring one stage.

Among the acts now announced also include Stereophonics tribute act Stereophonies, Choc ‘N’ Gilly and The Boy George Experience.

Gazette: Lemar performing in Colchester's Castle ParkLemar performing in Colchester's Castle Park (Image: Newsquest)

North Essex band Stiff in the Morning will also delight crowds with a rendition of its best hits.

Lemar, who has released three albums which are certified platinum or double platinum, will conclude the festival with a show-stopping performance on Saturday night.

Gazette: Performance - The Blues Brothers take to the stage last yearPerformance - The Blues Brothers take to the stage last year (Image: Steve Brading)

Mr Dutch, who founded the Anti Loo Roll Brigade charity which runs the event, said it is “incredible” to see how it has grown.

The brigade was initially established with the aim of reaching out and helping those in need during the pandemic.

Its work was celebrated when it launched the festival three years ago, with last year’s event attracting 4,500 visitors in total.

Previous acts include Toploader, Scouting for Girls and X Factor runner-up Fleur East.

Gazette: Great event - festival boss Peter Dutch with Fleur EastGreat event - festival boss Peter Dutch with Fleur East (Image: Contribution)

Tickets are yet to go on sale but Mr Dutch said they have been kept “really affordable” so all Colchester families are able to enjoy the experience.

Visitors will also be allowed to bring their own food and soft drinks into the park while children’s attractions and rides will be included in the entry price.

“It’s incredible to be back for a third year,” said Mr Dutch.

“As a Colchester lad it’s a fantastic thing to put an event on in Castle Park.

“It’s turning into a very well known, much-loved family festival where you don’t need to travel far to see big acts and quality production.”