A former member of one of the best-selling bands of all time is set to perform at a popular music festival this summer.

The Rochester Castle Concerts are set to kick off on July 6 and take place over four nights inside its stunning gardens.

After a raft of acts were confirmed for the event earlier this month, organisers have since announced Al McKay's Earth Wind & Fire Experience will performing at the venue.

McKay joined the legendary band - known for hits like September, Boogie Wonderland and Let's Groove - in 1973. He eventually left the group in 1981.

The Earth, Wind & Fire Experience was formed in 1990 when the original band went on hiatus and now features former members of the band as well as Tower of Power and the Doobie Brothers.

The group were announced as the replacements after Cameo - known for hits such as Word Up and Candy - had to cancel.

Al McKay's band will be performing on Friday, July 8, and special guests include Third World, The Dualers and the James Taylor Quartet.

Kicking off the four-day event is 80s icons The Human League performing hits such as Don't You Want Me, Fascination and Mirror Man.

The following night James Blunt, who shot to fame 15 years ago with the number one hit You're Beautiful, will take to the stage.

Closing out the festival will be Ska icons The Specials who gained worldwide exposure owing to their haunting anthem Ghost Town.

Additional acts named by the festival promoters, AGMP, include former X Factor soul singer Rebecca Ferguson and Scottish new wave artist Altered Images.

Also joining the list of performers is Blancmange and Manchester Indie pop group The Lottery Winners.

The four-day music extravaganza takes place in Rochester Castle, with the imposing fortress providing a backdrop to the concerts.

Last year's event, which returned after a Covid-caused break in 2020, boasted The Libertines and other top performers.

Previous performers include Van Morrison, Jools Holland, and Billy Ocean and crowd favourites UB40 who have sold out no less than three concerts.

For more information or to book tickets, click here.