One of the top festivals in the UK has gained the support of Caledonian
MacBrayne, which operates lifeline ferry services around the coast of
Scotland.

With this support, the Hebridean Celtic Festival is set to maintain its
reputation as a top quality event, especially with the launch of its new
programme for 2003.

In what is a thoroughly talented group of acts, the Festival (16th July -
19th July) will feature top-line performers including The Waterboys; Salsa
Celtica; Luar na Lubre; Fiddlers Bid; Mike McGoldrick and Finlay MacDonald.
There will also be a feast of female Celtic talent from a variety of
countries brought together as the 'Atlantic Project' which will open the
festival.

Festival Director Caroline MacLennan said: "The partnership with Caledonian
MacBrayne is much appreciated. We have had their backing in the past and
they have now extended their support. Year on, year out the Festival has
broken records for attendance; ticket sales and revenue. That is because we
continue to strive to stage a festival of the highest quality possible and
this year we are extremely excited to be announcing such a talented and
diverse line-up.

"The festival is a real economic catalyst for the area and its impact will
be enhanced through our relationship with Caledonian MacBrayne."

Mary Anne Campbell, CalMac's Route Manager based in Stornoway, said: "We are
delighted to recognise the importance of this major Hebridean event. The
company plays a crucial role in enabling people to get to and from the
islands. Clearly it is in our own interests and that of the festival to get
as many people here as possible and our support has been delivered in such a
way as to offer the Festival organisers an incentive to get as many people
here as possible. This is not just about short-term gain and the forthcoming
festival, but also about persuading people of the joys of coming back again.
This year's event has produced a marvellous billing and we will do
everything possible to get people in the mood on their way to the islands,
and make them wish they were not leaving."

The countries of Scotland, Ireland, Spain, Wales, Canada and England are all
represented on this year's programme. Last year, visitors from 30 countries
attended, travelling from afar as Australia, the USA, Japan and Canada,
underlining the international attraction of the festival.

For more information, please contact:
Caroline MacLennan
t: 07001 878787
m: 07990 761320

Peter Kane
t: 01463 226502
m: 07742308213

Hugh Dan MacLennan on 0776 435 4021 or Stornoway office of CalMac for
bookings:  01851 70 2361 or web-site  www.calmac.co.uk