“It’s too late to stop now.” Those were the words of the late legendary musician Barney McKenna, who passed away last year.

Last year, the group celebrated 50 years in the music business and received a Lifetime Achievement Award at the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards.

They followed up the success with a sell-out 12-gig UK concert tour, including dates in London, Manchester, Liverpool, Leeds and Cardiff.

The highlight was said to be a magical night at The Royal Albert Hall.

Sadly, the group suffered a body blow with the sudden death of founding member “Banjo” Barney McKenna.

He died, 50 years after he first met pioneers Ronnie Drew, Luke Kelly and Ciarán Bourke in O’Donoghue’s pub on Merrion Row in Dublin.

McKenna had been in the band since 1962 and passed away aged 72, while having a cup of tea with a friend.

After much deliberation, current members Sean Cannon, Eamonn Campbell, Patsy Watchorn and banjo virtuoso Gerry O’Connor have decided to continue the legacy. As Barney himself said “it’s too late to stop now”.

The group will be performing at St George’s Hall, Bradford on Thursday February 21 at 7.30pm. They will play all the classi songs including Whiskey in The Jar, Dirty Old Town and many more. Tickets cost £17 to £21.

For more information, call 01274 432000 or visit www.bradford-theatres.co.uk.