After a two year hiatus, the Ards International Guitar Festival is returning to Newtownards — and will be featuring some of the best guitar players from across Ireland and the UK. The festival will span the 7th through 10th of April.

In it's 26th year running, event goers can expect a mix of guitar-focused shows, clinics, film screenings and an exciting photography exhibit by Belfast-based broadcaster, Stuart Bailie.

"I am delighted to see the return of Ards Guitar Festival after its two-year break. It’s wonderful to see the return of concerts and live music and I would encourage people to buy some tickets and come along and enjoy the wonderful programme," said Councillor Mark Brooks, The Mayor of Ards and North Down.

This years festival features a spectacular lineup, one of the highlights being Jon Gromm — a UK based guitarist whose ambient and progressive musical styles are sure to wow anyone in attendance. Joining him is Carlow-born Shane Hennessy, a veteran of the Ards festival and prolific musician.

For fans of the blues, see Sam Davidson's Taste, who will be taking the stage at the Ivy Bar on April 9th. Or, if Flamenco is more your style, check out Paddy Anderson — one of the few professional Flamenco guitarists on the island — at Ards Arts Centre on April 10th.

The same venue will be hosting 'Classic Band Brunch Wild Eyed Boys – The Thin Lizzy Story' presented by Ralph McLean, which will channel the spirit of the iconic group revealing never-before-seen clips and McLean's background insights into the beloved band.

Fit for the whole family, the show will feature Kyle Riley's 'No Height Restriction Tour' at the Ards Arts Centre on April 9th. There, he will perform a range of original kids songs, time-honored classics and new age favourites.

Finally, 'Weekend Winddown' with The Unholy Gospel Band will close out the festival at the Ivy Bar on April 10th with their performance of  authentic American gospel-inspired tunes, fronted by the band's founder, Cormac Neeson.

“The past two years have been an incredibly challenging time for our musicians, both locally and on an international level," said Ards Guitar Festival Director, Emily Crawford. "Their opportunities to perform to in person audiences have been so limited that the buzz about this year’s festival is tangible. I can’t wait to welcome back our regular festival goers and new faces alike to enjoy fantastic and affordable live music."

The Ards International Guitar Festival runs from April 7th through 10th. For updates and forthcoming programme information, be sure to visit www.ardsguitarfestival.co.uk.