A PRIORY’S milestone birthday will be celebrated with a concert in its ruins.

Local musicians will fill the ruins of Lanercost Priory with the sound of music to mark the site’s 850th birthday on Saturday.

David Bamford, a licensed lay reader at the priory, said: “I suggested a day of music to celebrate the priory’s rich musical history and so a small group of us has pushed on with organizing the event. There’ll be a series of concerts, featuring a variety of music, given on the hour and lasting about 35 to 40 minutes each.

“There will also be refreshments available throughout.

“We are very grateful to all those performing as they are all giving their services for free.”

The series of concerts will include performances from musicians such as Maddy Prior, Noon Cornucopia, Ukes Akimbo, Brampton & District Community Choir and The League of Ukulele Gentlemen, and Eden Brass.

Lily Hopkins, a steward for the priory, said: “It’s wonderful to be able to celebrate 850 years of Christian witness within this building.

“I find it very moving that, though there have been some very difficult times in these Border lands over the years, the Christian message has continued to be preached at the priory.

The priory was consecrated in 1169 and has seen the likes of Edward I, Robert Bruce, William Wallace, and King David II of Scotland pay a visit.

On Sunday, the Rt Rev James Newcome will officiate a festival eucharist at 4pm.