Doncaster Music Festival to rename stage in honour of photographer after death

Mark Loraine, who captured many of the area’s bands and singers on camera, passed away shortly before Christmas, with tributes pouring in.

Now organisers of Doncaster Music Festival, which will be held at the city’s Eco Power Stadium have announced a stage will be renamed in Mr Loraine’s honour.

A spokesperson said: “We are incredibly pleased to announce that we have renamed our busker stage to the Mark Loraine Busker Stage in honour of the incredible photographer Mark Loraine who sadly passed away last month.

“Mark has been snapping away at our festivals since we began in 2016. He is a huge loss to us all. RIP Mark, thanks for the memories.”

Mr Lorained died on December 22.

A spokesperson for Doncaster Music Festival, previously titled Askern Music Festival, added: "He was a fabulous guy who was a keen supporter of the local music scene in and around Doncaster and Yorkshire.

"Most of all he was a true friend of the festival even carrying out some design work for us in the early days at Askern.”

Singer Anastasia Walker, former lead singer of Doncaster favourites Bang Bang Romeo shared: “Devastated to hear the news of Mark Loraine.

“Mark was such an important staple in the Doncaster and Sheffield music community, for taking breathtaking shots of accomplished artists and up and comers. Giving bands a chance of “lookin the s***

“I’ll always remember Mark being the one to give Bang Bang Romeo our first “proper” shoot.

"He got the brief bang on, which was a retro, deep and hazy vibe that could have only been plucked from the 70s, and if a photo were to have a smell, it would be an old suede jacket from a vintage shop in Camden.

"He nailed it and I honestly felt beautiful, powerful and “cool” when he sent the final edits. It set the bench mark for BBR shoots to come and honestly gave me such a confidence. I’m happy that I told him this years later, he smiled and was incredibly humble as always.

“Not only was he skilled in his shoots and live shots at shows, he was a loyal, friendly and kind presence in the music scene and beyond. Always supporting, always showing up.

“I’m devastated to hear the news of his passing and want to send his loved ones and family my deepest condolences. Thank you for everything Mark, we will always be grateful. Love and peace.”

Another pal shared: “I'm so sad, you were a lovely man and a great photographer you will be greatly missed. My heart goes out to your family.”

Another tribute read: “Gutted! A fabulous friend, great photographer and will be sadly missed.”

Local musician Shreddy Mercury added: “Very sad to hear the news about Mark Loraine. Lovely bloke and great photographer. Always managed to make me look like I knew what I was doing. He will be sorely missed.”