More acts chosen to entertain Bradford shoppers (From Bradford Telegraph and Argus)

Programme arranged to attract bigger crowds into shopping area over summer

11:16am Thursday 7th July 2011 in News By Jo Winrow , City Hall Reporter

The full line-up of entertainment hitting the streets of Bradford city centre this summer has been revealed.

It includes nearly two dozen acts from a harpist to rap workshops as well as flamenco and ukulele players. They will play on Saturdays throughout the summer to entice shoppers to New Market Place, Darley Street and Northgate.

Each act has been vetted by the Council and the announcement follows performances of folk music last weekend across the city centre.

The festival is part of Backing Bradford, a new campaign by the Telegraph & Argus and Bradford Council, designed to encourage people to use the shops, services and eateries on their doorstep. Those who show their loyalty by shopping in the city will be able to take advantage of various discounts and offers.

Councillor David Green, the Council’s executive member for regeneration and economy, said: “The first acts went down very well with shoppers. Rakish Paddy, the Irish folk band, got people dancing in the streets which is an encouraging sign.

“The aim for the summer is to make the city centre more vibrant and improve the atmosphere for visitors and shoppers. It complements other schemes we’ve introduced in recent months.”

• Read the full story Thursday’s T&A