Julie Fowlis, Hayseed Dixie, John McCusker, Fara and Talisk have all been added to the HebCelt 2016 line-up.

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HebCelt will run from 13-16 July in Stornoway in the island of Lewis and will be headlined by Scottish rock legends Runrig who will top the bill on the closing night.

Julie Fowlis, one of the first inductees to the HebCelt Hall of Fame and an ambassador for the event commented: "Coming from the Outer Hebrides I have always been excited about playing at HebCelt. It is a highlight of the year for me and I am particularly looking forward to returning there for the 21st festival.”

Festival director Caroline Maclennan added: “We are delighted to welcome Julie Fowlis back to HebCelt. She grew up with the festival and has played a major role in its success and growth.

“As an artist of international standing now she is an inspiration to singers and musicians who play in the Gaelic or traditional genres.

“We are also thrilled with the other bands we are announcing today. Hayseed Dixie are a superb live act with a combination of great musicianship and fun cover version that will be a big hit with our audience.

“Fara and Talisk are both exceptional bands and among the best young acts around at the moment. We are always enthusiastic about encouraging young talent and providing a platform at HebCelt to help their development.”

HebCelt has grown from a small event attracting less than 1,000 fans, to an international showpiece for Celtic and traditional music, generating more than £20 million for the local economy over two decades.

Audiences included visitors travelling from throughout the UK and Europe as well from the US, Australia, Japan, Canada, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates.