Barlow covers ill Richie in Radio 2 gig

Gary Barlow has stepped in to headline this weekend’s Radio 2 Live in Hyde Park concert after Lionel Richie pulled out through illness.

The Take That singer joins artists including Lenny Kravitz, Will Young, James Blunt, Beverley Knight on the bill for the live show on Sunday.

Gary says: “It’s a pleasure to step in last minute and cover for Mr. Richie. Chris (Evans) called me and said Lionel had had to pull out because he was ill and they had a hole in the show, so I was more than happy to help out.”

Chris Evans said: “What an incredible line-up – thanks to super-sub Gary Barlow, who is now the icing on what was already a pretty special cake! It promises to be a terrific day of entertainment at Radio 2 Live in Hyde Park! If you can’t be there in person, soak up the atmosphere by listening to the action as it happens on Radio 2.”

Also just added to the bill are disco group Chic. Lewis Carnie, Head of Programmes at BBC Radio 2, said: “We are thrilled that Gary Barlow and Chic are now joining us in Hyde Park this Sunday. Gary’s a huge favourite with Radio 2 listeners and Chic are unique disco legends. We at Radio 2 are saddened for both Lionel and his fans that he has had to pull out and we wish him a speedy recovery. The concert will be a fantastic celebration and it promises to be an afternoon and evening to remember.”

Other acts performing include Lenny Kravitz, Will Young, James Blunt, Beverley Knight, Imelda May, Bellowhead, Jools Holland with Sandie Shaw and Ruby Turner, Caro Emerald, The Pierces and Jonathan Jeremiah.

Radio 2 presenters due to be on stage on Sunday afternoon include Chris Evans, Jeremy Vine, Vanessa Feltz, Paul O’Grady, Tony Blackburn, Trevor Nelson, Huey Morgan and Bob Harris.

Weekend Wogan will broadcast live from Hyde Park on Sunday between 11am-1pm, featuring interviews from some of the day’s performers. Live coverage of the concert starts at 3.30pm hosted by Johnnie Walker and Jo Whiley.