Sea Shanty Stars Move Shows for 1,000 Fans

The Saltburn Smugglers, a sea shanty group, are relocating their free summer performances along the promenade to accommodate growing audiences. In their fourth year, the singers of traditional and original maritime-themed songs are anticipating up to 1,000 attendees, prompting a move of approximately 150ft to a larger space.

Founder Keith Ayling noted that audience numbers have doubled each year, inspiring the expansion. The songs draw from the area's maritime history, emphasizing themes of hope, love, and collective effort, akin to a ship's crew. Performances occur on 31 July and 14 August, beginning at 18:00 BST.

Ayling and his wife founded the group five years ago, inspired by the Covid-19 pandemic and a desire to revive communal singing. The group has since engaged with local schools, fostering singing and sharing maritime heritage.

Originally work songs sung in difficult conditions, shanties focus on rhythm and the sea. The Saltburn Smugglers aim to impart a positive feeling, with collections supporting the group and the RNLI.