POPULAR broadcaster and folk singer Mike Harding is to be bestowed with the title of ‘Ard Ollamh’ of the All Britain Fleadh, the biggest Irish music festival in Britain, which is this year being held in Kirkby Lonsdale.

The title translates as ‘High Bard’ and it is a tradition of such gatherings that is is given to a particular musician from the local area who has contributed to the promotion of traditional music over the years.

Until this year Comhaltas in Britain, which organises the event, has not used this honour, but given the expanded and enhanced event this year it was seen as the right occasion to make this award of Ard Ollamh for the first time.

Mr Harding will unveiled at the official opening ceremony at Lunsdale Hall, Kirkby Lonsdale on Friday June 28, the first day of the three day festival, which will feature around 600 musicians competing in a total of 245 competitions.