Mariners Away take the stage at Exeter Chiefs!

Dartmoor’s very own sea shanty crew, Mariners Away traded their more-traditional coastal backdrop for the energy of Sandy Park rugby stadium on Sunday, October 27th.

The shanty crew brought their rich, nautical melodies to the home of Exeter Chiefs, setting the scene for the highly anticipated Gallagher Premiership clash against Harlequins.

The 11-strong crew kicked off the day with a lively performance at The Piazza, drawing in the early arrivals with their signature maritime tunes. Then, as the crowd swelled, the popular crew moved to the Pitchside Stage, capturing the spotlight on the stadium’s big screens, right up to kick off at 3pm.

Entertaining audiences across the South West for some 16 years, this, Mariners' debut at Sandy Park, marked another milestone for the South Zeal-based crew whose performances over the last twelve months have included Exeter Corn Exchange , the main stage at Falmouth International Sea Shanty Festival, The Plough Arts Centre in Great Torrington and BBC Spotlight.

With some members of Mariners Away having received life-saving cardiac care at Royal Devon & Exeter Hospital in recent years the crew are passionate supporters of the Royal Devon Hospitals Charity, who they were proud to represent at this prestigious event.

Unfortunately, the match ended in a 19-36 defeat for Rob Baxter’s side, extending Chief’s tough start to the Gallagher Premiership season.

However, fans were able to have a few drinks and a good old dance to cheer themselves up after the match to lively pop-rock covers band Lion. With charismatic front man Dean Wright enthusing the crowd with his high-energy performance, the sting of the loss was soon forgotten and all were dancing and singing away to the songs in the set which are always definitely not your usual covers.

To read more about Mariners Away remarkable journey visit www.marinersaway.co.uk or catch near 100 performances on their dedicated YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/@marinersaway9093/playlists

For more information about the Devon-based band Lion, visit their Facebook page to get all the updates - https://www.facebook.com/lionbanduk?locale=en_GB