IT became an instant success thanks to a £2million restoration project and a starring Commonwealth Games role.

Now the 90-year-old bandstand in Glasgow's Kelvingrove Park is set to host the first of an annual series of summer gigs.

Thousands of revellers flocked to the amphi-theatre for film screenings and bands including Belle and Sebastian, during the Glasgow 2014 Festival.

And from tonight, a host of artists, including Steve Earle, The Waterboys, Teenage Fanclub and Squeeze, will take to the historic stage.

Gerry White, promotor with Regular Music, said he wanted to organise an event after seeing the work being done on it.

He said: "I was driving past the bandstand last year and I noticed it was under construction. So I had a look around and thought it looked great.

"You've got Glasgow University just behind, you have the river there.

"I remembered from years ago when I used to go there with my family and see bands playing.

"I knew it would be a great place for events."

Gerry was worried about the cost of holding an outdoor event - he said: "It's not as easy as indoor gigs where you can just plug in and go."

So he approached sponsors Magners who were "really positive" and wanted to get involved. Gerry said: "They knew it was the West End, which has a great music and social scene, and they liked the sound of the venue."

Despite having a relatively small capacity - 2500 people - Gerry managed to sign up top acts.

Some sold out in minutes - Teenage Fanclub tickets were gone in 16 minutes, the Waterboys sold out in 24 minutes and Squeeze sold out the day they went on sale.

Gerry said: "We have a few tickets left for some things but we are really expecting it all to sell out."

The success means organisers want to make it an annual occasion.

Gerry said: "It's a long- term commitment."

The festival will also see Alison Moyet and the Bluebells, as well as Capercaillie and The Silencers.

Hannah Gadsby and Jason Cook are among the comedians who will entertain this weekend and next.

rachel.loxton@ eveningtimes.co.uk