A SINGING duo are helping a Bolton venue rekindle its links with Canada.

Canadian bluegrass duo Tomato/Tomato are setting their sights on completing their first sell-out tour of the UK when they visit The Barlow in Edgworth next week.

Not your garden variety duo the New Brunswick-based couple, John and Lisa McLaggan, write clever and quirky original songs that draw on traditional Folk, Bluegrass, Blues and Swing with interesting twists.

John McLaggan said: "We have been having a wonderful time across the pond, playing shows, meeting lovely people, and seeing the sights.

"We're really excited to be coming to The Barlow. We hope you're ready for some fresh washboard and harmony in Edgworth!"

It is also an opportunity for the village to celebrate its historical links with the other side of the pond.

During research of Edgworth's war memorial at the Methodist Church in Bolton Road it was discovered that 17 of its names related to men who fought with the Canadian Expeditionary Force.

These men had once been sent to Canada to work as indentured domestic servants and farm labourers through charities, including the Methodist Children’s Home and Barnardo’s.

Barlow marketing co-ordinator Linda Spencer said: "Edgworth had strong links with Canada as many of the boys who were at the children's home were emigrated to Canada as "British Home Children".

"Many fought in Canadian forces in World War One and are commemorated on a war memorial at the Methodist Church.

"This is the first time that Tomato/Tomato have toured in England so it is a rare opportunity for people to see them. They can be seen on Youtube and Lisa has an amazing ability to play many instruments at the same time - quite something!"

Lisa performs on an old washboard, adorned with tin cans and a cymbal while simultaneously playing bass and snare drums with her feet.

John’s old-time guitar and Lisa’s up-cycled percussion create an unmistakable sound that is unique, refreshing and fun.

Their music combines years of study with the everyday ebb and flow of life on the East Coast of Canada.

Following the release of their debut album So It Goes, the duo are now setting their sights on conquering the rest of the world with their upcoming sophomore effort, I Go Where You Go.

The show forms part of Spot On Lancashire’s autumn season of touring, taking professional arts events to village halls and libraries across the county.

It takes place on November 25 from 7:30pm, with tickets priced at £8 or £6 for under 18s and concessions. To book call 01204 852216 or email info@thebarlow.co.uk.