Boyzone had been signed up to headline at next year's Isle of Man Bay Festival Manx radio can reveal, just hours before the sudden death of singer Stephen Gately.

The 33-year-old died last Saturday from heart failure while on holiday in Majorca.

It's believed his family has a history of tragically early deaths from coronary problems.

Festival promoter Jonathan Irving says he was shocked and saddened when he heard the news: (play clip)

The other members of the close-knit group are considering what they want to do following their loss before deciding on the future of the band - and whether they would still wish to appear on the Island.