BECOMING a mum has changed Cara Dillon’s outlook on life. It has not, however, dulled her passion for performing and, following an 18-month career break to raise twins, the folk singer has returned to the stage.

Dillon’s maternity leave came unexpectedly when she went into labour on stage in November 2006.

Boys Colm and Noah were born three months premature and for several months Dillon and husband Sam Lakeman endured tough times.

Talking candidly, Dillon said: “We were knocked sideways by their early birth.

“Our whole world went into slow motion for several months while they were in hospital. It was an extremely difficult time for us all even after they were allowed to come home. It’s been such an incredible journey so far and it seems to get better and better with every step.”

Born in Dungiven, Northern Ireland, the teenage Dillon found her musical feet with folk bands Oige and Equation. She was nominated for prestigious awards and produced some beautiful music, but was plagued by record label problems.

The bumps and bruises prompted her and Lakeman to set up the independent Charcoal Records and the first release, Hill Of Thieves, will be on sale when Dillon performs in Worcester next month.

“We’ve been so busy with the new record label and recording this fourth album,” she said.

“But I’m very excited about the ways things are going. Doing it yourself is hard work, but we have complete control and not every musician has.

“A lot has changed.”

Dillon plays at Worcester’s Huntingdon Hall on Thursday, November 6.

For tickets call Worcester Live on 01905 611427 or visit worcesterlive.co.uk. For more about the artist log onto caradillon.com.