LOCKDOWN has stopped many performers in their tracks - but one Barnsley musician has found a way to continue doing his day job in somewhat different surroundings.

Like many, Birdwell singer and guitarist Keiran La Fox has kept himself busy with live-streamed gigs online - but when the government announced people could hold small outdoor gatherings, he saw an opportunity to get back to doing what he loves.

“This was going to be my biggest summer - I was more or less booked up until Christmas,” said Keiran, 28, who makes a living playing weddings, functions and festivals throughout the region and further afield.

“I came up with the idea from talking to a friend.

“So I just put something out once the announcement came, asking if people would be up for me coming to play their barbecue for a few quid.

“I thought I could at least make a bit of money out of it, but that’s not what it’s about.

“I could tell people were wanting to get out and socialise - it’s good for people to not feel like they’re stuck at home.

“I can’t see bars opening inside for a while.

“I don’t think anyone quite knows how live music is going to work, so I think I’ll carry on like this for a while.”

Keiran, who’s been playing live since his early teens, admits he was surprised at how much attention the idea’s received - which saw him end up giving interviews on regional radio stations.

Keiran said: “The first week I got ten bookings, but I ended up having to cancel a few.

“The only thing that’s spoilt it so far has been the weather.

“It’s a bit different, it’s an hour set for a few people sat in their garden eating burgers, so you don’t need a massive PA or anything like that.

“It’s definitely weird, but it’s nice to get back to some sort of normality.”