Olly Murs revealed as headliner for annual festival honouring Caroline Flack

OLLY Murs will headline an annual festival honouring his late friend Caroline Flack.

Flackstock returns in 2024 to celebrate the former Love Island star’s life with comedy, dance and music – and raise critical funds for mental health charities.

Caroline’s family and friends have today announced the performers and special guests for the festival’s third year.

In addition to Olly, All Saints legend Shaznay Lewis, Rebecca Ferguson, Tom Walker, Chesney Hawkes and New Dad are the first main acts to be announced for the event.

It will take place in the grounds of Englefield, the Elizabethan House and estate near Pangbourne in Berkshire. 

Olly, who has appeared for the finale twice in the past, says: “It’s going to be amazing to be back at Flackstock this year.

“For the past two years I’ve been there for the closing of the night and performed Sweet Caroline.

“But this year we are doing a full set for the crowd, and I can’t wait to perform at this day festival in Caroline’s memory.

“This isn’t just a gig – it’s something that’s raised nearly half a million pounds for four brilliant charities and it’s a pleasure to be there to help raise even more for them on behalf of Caz.” 

Caroline, who was the former host of Love Island, tragically died by suicide in 2020.

Both Olly and Caroline were close friends, and even presented a series of The X Factor together.

He broke down in tears on stage last year as he sang Sweet Caroline in her honour, telling fans: “I lost a very good friend of mine, someone that I love very, very much.

“Her name is Caroline Flack and it is one of the toughest things that has happened in my life and it is really sad to see someone so amazing leave us but she has never left and she is always in my heart.”

As well as Flackstock’s big performers, stage appearances on the day will include everybody’s favourite fitness and health inspiration Joe Wicks who will lead the crowd for a special moment.

There are many more acts performing and appearing to be announced in due course from Flackstock. 

The event has now raised close to £500,000 across the first two years for four amazing charities.

Money raised from Flackstock 2024 will once again be split equally between Choose Love, Mind, Samaritans and Charlie Waller Trust – four worthy outlets that held a special place in Caroline’s heart.

Caroline’s mother Christine said: “I can’t believe we are in our third year and have Olly performing a full set this time round.

“Last year was bigger and more successful than we could have ever imagined so we are thrilled the festival is coming back for a third time.

“Raising so much money for these brilliant charities was exactly what we’d hoped for – providing a legacy for my Caroline.

“As I’ve said before, Carrie was never more herself or happier than at a music festival with her sister and her friends. 

“It’s just incredible to have the support of these excellent acts for a third time and it will be a day not to be missed.

“A big thank you to everyone involved for all their hard work – Giles Cooper Entertainment and Englefield House and to all the brilliant sponsors.

“My family are so proud that so many people who knew Carrie loved her so very much. And celebrating her life and raising money for the charities once again will be a fantastic event for us all. We hope you can join us.” 

Stay tuned to Flackstock’s social media accounts, for more acts, special guests and announcements ahead of the festival on July 22.