IT IS shaping up to be one of the best parties we never had.

The Island's musical community is getting behind the County Press's virtual VE Day party next Friday (May 8) with artists from Level 42's Mark King to 40s harmony group Company B-UK all agreeing to help us entertain the Island on the 75th anniversary of the end of the war in Europe.

Scroll down to see who else is involved...

Among the other artists confirmed are musical theatre star Jamie Buckley, Mike Christie of vocal group G4, JC Grimshaw and Family, pianist Francesca McLinden, Black Daniels (who are promising a Johnny Cash medley) and Ollie Ducie from Lucid.

We want to recognise 1945's and today's heroes, the NHS workers and carers who are working so hard on the Covid-19 frontline.

We are inviting Islanders to have a safe, socially isolated party in their own homes and gardens on the day and send us their pictures of them cracking open a bottle, or having tea and cucumber sandwiches.

Isle of Wight County Press:

Cowes-born Mark King said he was looking forward to performing for Islanders from his home here on the IW.

"I will be performing a couple of our hits from my isolation to your isolation...I think it will be a great day," said Mark.

Nathan Stubbings said: "It’s only really been this year that I’ve started singing outside the theatre. So it’s certainly odd that all of a sudden there is no public to sing to!

"That said, I have found switching to recording to be very rewarding and it’s something I’m happy to carry on even when I can sing to people in person again.

"I’m delighted to be able to sing (even online) for such a great occasion, especially as I ordinarily wouldn’t get the chance."

Company B-UK said: "We are delighted to be taking part in the County Press’s VE Day celebrations. "As an Island-based, 1940s inspired group, this day is very special to us and, despite the circumstances, we are glad that we can still share it with everyone and do our part during this time."

JC Grimshaw said: "I am missing my regular gigs around the Island, but I am making the most of having some quality time at home with the family, and I am enjoying making music with my wife Kathy and children Sol and Tilly."

Isle of Wight County Press:

Mark King

You can digitally "tune in" to hear these performances and see pictures of 1945 street parties and people's own virtual parties in their own homes and gardens, by clicking on our live blog on countypress.co.uk next Friday.