Lytham-born country music artist Ellie Jo Lovini will return to her home area for a one-off concert at Fylde Rugby Club on Saturday, 4 July.

Friend of Questa, Ellie Jo Lovini, who will be better remembered locally as Ellie Armstrong, was born in Lytham St. Anne’s and moved to the United States at the age of 11 after securing a football scholarship. She is now based in Florida and performs as a country singer-songwriter under the stage name Ellie Jo Lovini.

The concert at Fylde Rugby Club will mark a return to the Fylde coast for the artist, who has just released her first album of original country music and performed across the United States.

Her father, Gary Lovini, a violinist known for his stage performances in the UK and internationally, played on her first album.

Anthony Hoskisson, President of Fylde Rugby Club, said: “It’s great to welcome Ellie back to the area. My son played football with her when they were children, so it’s been amazing to see the path she’s taken since leaving Lancashire. To have her return and perform at the club on Independence Day makes it a really special occasion for local people who have followed her journey.”

Before pursuing music professionally, Ellie Jo played football in the United States and represented the Stephen F. Austin State University Ladyjacks in NCAA Division I competition. She previously played youth football in Florida after relocating from Lancashire.

The event is expected to attract music fans from across the Fylde coast and beyond, providing an opportunity for local audiences to see the Florida-based performer in her home region. The concert will also highlight the continuing connection between the artist and the area where she spent her early years.

Ellie Jo Lovini said: “Coming back to perform so close to where I grew up feels like coming full circle. I left Lancashire as a kid with big dreams and a football scholarship, and now I’m returning with my own music. It means a lot to share this moment with family, old friends and people from the community that helped shape who I am.”

The concert is free and will take place at Fylde Rugby Club on Saturday 4 July from 3 pm. More details from this page about Ellie-Jo and the concert.