With more than 35,000 people expected to visit the town over this Bank Holiday weekend, it is set to be a festival to remember.

From 7 p.m. tonight (Friday), bands will take to the stages across the seven official venues.

Starting off proceedings on the International Stage is Supercharge, followed by Dr Feelgood, Nine Below Zero and Eddie and the Hot Rods.
Over on the British Stage will be the Robin Bibi Band, Karac and Little Stevie and the Business.

The Roadhouses, sponsored by Barnfield Construction, will also have some great bands appearing today. At the Crown Hotel, people can catch Last City Sinners and Chantel McGregor, while at the Admiral Lord Rodney, Dealer will be providing the entertainment. Over at Colne and Nelson Rugby Club, the Charlie White Project will be followed by Sly Fox, and at the Queens the audience will be entertained by Willie Brown's Rhythm Method and the Alligators.

Event organiser Alison Goode said: "The line-up is one of the most exciting to hit Colne for many years and brings together internationally acclaimed artists from across the world, such as Steve Cropper, Walter Trout and Ruby Turner, with new and exciting artists. This event is much more than a music festival, it is an experience not to be missed. Special thanks must go to our partners and sponsors for their continued support, namely Barnfield Construction, East Lancashire Community Rail Partnership and Pendle Council."

Throughout the weekend, revellers can see the cream of the crop – from pioneers such as Billy Boy Arnold to local stars of the future such as the Arden Youth Choir, and from electric blues through to rock, jazz and acoustic sets. Entry to the British Stage, Acoustic Stage and Roadhouse venues is available with a Pledge Badge. These cost £3 for one or £5 for two, and by buying two in the same transaction, guests will also receive a free Great British Rhythm and Blues Festival brochure. Pledge Badges can be bought from any of the official venues as well as from official sellers.

This year, the festival is supporting the SOPHIE campaign set up in memory of Sophie Lancaster, murdered in a Bacup park because of her Goth look. The goal of the SOPHIE foundation is to Stamp Out Prejudice, Hate and Intolerance Everywhere. People can pledge their support by buying an official SOPHIE wristband from any of the official venues at the weekend.

Tickets are still available for the International Stage. Make sure you don't miss out by calling the box office on 661234 or you can book online at www.bluesfestival.co.uk