Billy Ocean kicks off Salt and Tar festival in Bootle
Billy Ocean kicks off Salt and Tar festival in Bootle

Billy Ocean kicked off the Salt and Tar Music Festival in Bootle on Thursday, August 13, launching four nights of live music in Merseyside. The event has returned to the town, travelling down the canal to the Lock and Quay's evening site while work continues to expand its home venue.

Timeless classics on stage

The singer-songwriter brought his timeless classics to the Salt and Tar stage, including hits such as 'Caribbean Queen,' 'When the Going Gets Tough, the Tough Get Going,' and 'Get Outta My Dreams, Get into My Car'.

The ECHO attended the opening night, where hundreds of people soaked up the atmosphere. Among the crowd were fans celebrating a 65th birthday, and the weather was described as perfect for the occasion.

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Festival moves on tour

The event has gone 'on tour' to its neighbours at the Lock and Quay's evening site, with queues seen outside the venue. The festival is set to run for four days, with performances including Helena May on the opening evening.

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