kelham

A free festival celebrating Kelham Island received a major boost as another band signed up to play.

Folk and rock group Treebeard will appear as the Festival of Life begins on August 6th at 7pm to mark the regeneration of the area into a thriving cultural quarter.

Just ten years ago the area – once an industrial powerhouse – lay forgotten following the decline of the steel industry before it was developed.

But the bash will pay homage to the area and lead into the festival that Sheffield City Council is planning.

Treebeard, a well-known group on the beer festival circuit, will join local rap duo Post Collide performing at the series of family, business and youth events.

Organiser & Associate Minister Terry Eckersley, a former music producer, said that momentum has ‘snowballed’ since plans were revealed last month.

He has even had to turn away acts due to demand to appear at the events.

‘We’ve really tapped into something,’ said Terry.

‘The interest has snowballed, and we’ve even had to turn away a couple of acts that were desperate to appear as there’s just not enough space for them.

‘There’s a great feeling in Kelham Island at the minute. The shows are going to be an amazing chance for people to have a great time, taste great food and have fun.’

Treebeard, who formed in 1998 as five-piece band, will perform at the first event on August 6th alongside the City Life band from 7pm. Free food, awards, music & fun are available to honour the local residents and community.

Entrepreneur Anthony Hodges – one of Yorkshire’s most successful businessmen – will then give a talk revealing his business secrets on August 20th.

Post Collide, who have starred on BBC1 Radio 1 and 1Xtra, will then perform a one-off gig for young people on August 13th and again during the University’s fresher’s week on September 24th.

Lead singer Chris McMahon: ‘This gig is certainly one that we’re looking forward to.

‘We’re Sheffield born and bred so it means a lot to us to be able to sing the praises of our home city.’

The bash has been organised by City Life Church in Shalesmoor, under the leadership of Rev Dr Jim Master. The organisation has played a key role in Kelham Island’s development – working with residents there for more than 30 years.

Pastor Anthony Nicholson said: ‘There was a time when Kelham Island was a place nobody wanted to visit. But we were here then, helping some of the people of the area, giving food, education and support.

The area has changed a lot but it’s important that people from all walks of life know that we are still here for them.’