One of the UK's leading music festivals has announced its programme for 2005 and it will see Irish legend Van Morrison, Scotland's Runrig and Shooglenifty heading the bill.

All three will appear at the Hebridean Celtic Festival, based in Stornoway, 13th-16th July. It is an indication of the festival's growing status and international reputation that it has been able to attract such leading artists from the music industry.

Festival Director Caroline MacLennan said: "This year's programme is possibly the strongest bill we have ever put together for what will be our tenth anniversary. We are extremely pleased to be welcoming such quality acts as Van Morrison, Runrig and Shooglenifty to our event. It is a special year for us and we believe the music will reflect that. We are sure that the festival-goers who voted us the 'Event of the Year' in 2004 will agree with us.

"We have the music, the setting and a supportive community. That's why the festival attracts past and new visitors alike. We continue to go from strength to strength and have to thank our sponsors, supporters and those who buy the tickets for their valuable backing."

Van Morrison will be playing on the Thursday night 14th July; Runrig on Friday night 15th July and Shooglenifty on Saturday night 16th July.

Tickets will go on sale in early May.  The Hebridean Celtic Festival website is at www.hebceltfest.com