Irish country music will be brought to Cumbria by a star from The Voice UK.

Belfast-born singer, John Rafferty, is making his 'welcome return' to Rosley Village Hall on Sunday, June 23.

Steeped in music from the age of 17, Mr Rafferty spent most of his early career doing guest spots as a Garth Brooks tribute.

It wasn't until around eight years ago, when he started focusing on Irish country music, that his career took flight.

He made his mark singing on The Voice UK in 2014, performing in front of Tom Jones, Kylie Minogue, Will-I-AM, and Ricky Wilson.

He led a similar campaign on Britain's Got Talent, navigating his way to the top 200 from the thousands of competitors.

Despite these triumphs, Rafferty's crowning achievement was winning Glór Tire, an Irish reality-based talent search, in 2019.

He has recorded three albums to date.

His first album was produced by Rosley favourite, Stephen Smyth, and his second album earned a number one spot in the iTunes Irish Country Music Charts.

Bed of Roses, Country Roads, Your Cheating Heart, and Just to See you Smile are among Mr Rafferty's go-to songs during performances.

Organiser Adele Egglestone of Penrith said: "John has established himself as a firm favourite at Rosley, and we are delighted to be welcoming him back.

"John has a powerful strong voice and has a great repertoire of songs that the Rosley audience love."

Tickets for the performance are £12 and must be bought in advance from Ms Egglestone.

Doors open at 7pm for the 8pm start of the show at the village hall, which has a fully licensed bar and disabled facilities.