Hardwick Live 2015, returning to County Durham on August 22 has for the first time ever added a second stage. The stage will give festival-goers the opportunity to see ‘tomorrow’s acts today,’ as they play alongside one of the nation’s most successful bands, Cast.

Cast, who emerged from John Power’s post-seminal band, The La’s, released a string of anthems, including Finetime, Sandstorm and Walkaway, before splitting in 2001. The band reformed in 2010, with hit single Baby Blue Eyes released in 2014 and a new album due later this year.

Cast will headline Hardwick Live’s new Discovery Stage, where they will be joined by a host of upcoming acts from across the UK, including North East duo Smoove & Turrell, The Sherlocks and Randolph’s Leap.

Other acts taking to the Discovery stage at Hardwick Live 2015 will include Black Delta Movement, who recently supported Jesus and the Mary Chain and new RCA Records signing, Redfaces, who join Mark Ronson and Justin Timberlake on the iconic label and Dexters, with more acts still to be announced. .

Event organiser, John Adamson, said: “Hardwick Live 2015 already has a stellar line-up, with performances by headliners James and special guests Razorlight, as well as 10cc, Embrace and more.

“This second stage is all about giving the very best new and emerging acts the opportunity to shine and I’m delighted that it is being championed by a band with the musical calibre and heritage of Cast.”

Tickets for Hardwick Live 2015, priced from £8 children and £49 adults.