Rock your socks off in Whitwell

Following the continued success of the festival, Whitwell Forward Community Group have increased the number of bands who are to appear at Whitwell Centre to 25.

The line up includes Cycle Paths, who recently signed a record deal and released their first album enhancing an already growing reputation, The Dismissive ATTACK, who are fresh from starring at the Tramlines Festival and 12-piece reggae-ska band Jungle Lion.

Visitors will also be treated to a special appearance by French musician Dom DufF, who is coming over the channel especially to play after learning of the festival at home in Brittany.

Leap of Faith, Swamp Dog, Cold Gin and the Cycle Paths will open the festival on the evening of Friday 7th September.

And Saturday is when the festival gets into full swing with a further 17 bands making their way to the stage as well as a performance poet, ukulele and dance workshops, real ale bar, food and festival stalls.

The raffle offers festival goers the chance to win guitars, drums, other musical instruments and vinyl signed by very popular festival band, the Vaccines.

Bands appearing include Dom DufF, Jungle Lion, The Dismissive ATTACK, Smiling Ivy, Jacks Rake, A Multitude of Sins, Green Fortune, Grassoline, The Early Cartographers, Spandau Ballet – ‘the Tribute’, Tuesday Lates, Tribe of Juan, Mag 7, Big Stripey Lies, Casper and the Fleas, Northern Monkey and the Rash guaranteeing there will be something for all musical tastes.

Sunday will see chilled-out sessions on the Unison stage after its debut last year with the Amelia Carter Band, Shimmering Delfina, Shanks’ Pony and the Hummingbirds Blues Band.

Around 1,000 people attended last year, raising £1,200 for local charities and community groups.

“Apart from giving the community a great day out, the event aims to introduce local children and young adults to the excitement of live music, raise awareness of music related industries and inspire them to get involved in playing, listening to and producing their own music in the future,” say organisers.

Doors open at 7pm on Friday with bands playing until 11.30pm. Admission £4. Doors open at 1pm on Saturday, with bands playing until 11pm. Admission £5.

Doors open at 2pm on Sunday, with bands playing until 6pm. Admission £4. Concession prices apply. Early bird weekend tickets (£8) and early bird Saturday (£3) are available from Whitwell Centre. Camping available. Visit www.whitwellfestivalofmusic.org.uk for further details.