Irish festival welcomes top bands

Katie Melua is headlining the final day of the event on Sunday

Katie Melua, the Proclaimers and Deacon Blue are three of the bands entertaining the crowds at The World Fleadh music festival in Ireland.

The seven-day international event, which showcases the best of Irish and Celtic music, began on Monday.

More than 640 musicians are performing in the specially-designed village in Portlaoise, County Laois.

Masterclasses and demonstrations in traditional music, song and dance are also being provided by top musicians.

In addition, the festival - in its second year - is hosting international competitions in music, song and dance.

A 1,500-seat dome and a 5,000 capacity outdoor area have been set up to accommodate the crowds. In total, 210 events will take place in 20 different venues in Portlaoise.

Folk group Flook are among the other acts performing

Katie Melua is headlining the Fleadh - which means festival in Gaelic and is pronounced "flah" - on Sunday, the final day, when The Proclaimers will also play.

Deacon Blue, whose hits include Real Gone Kid, are performing on Saturday 11 August.

Festival director Eric Cunningham said: "With the announcement of this year's line-up we are delighted to restate our belief that by blending top international acts with the immense Irish talent, we will introduce a whole new audience to the joys and wonders of Irish and Celtic music."

An estimated 50,000 people attended the inaugural World Fleadh was held in Ballybunion, County Kerry, in 2006.