Great British Rhythm & Blues Festival begins in Colne

Colne is prepared for the biggest weekend in the town’s calendar as the Great British Rhythm and Blues Festival begins tonight.

Thousands of fans have flocked to the annual event which this year is celebrating its 22nd birthday.

Six hundred artists are set to perform over the course of the four days in eight locations across the town and these include international superstars of the blues world right down to those just starting out and trying to make a carrer for themselves in music.

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From authentic electric Blues, through to rock, jazz and acoustic sets, there really is something for every one of the people travelling to Colne this August Bank Holiday weekend.

The Hamilton Loomis Band kicks-off the proceedings on the International Stage at 7-30 p.m. tonight and the festival doesn’t look back from then on with an action packed line-up that will blow you away.

Some of the names to look out for include Jack Bruce, Steve Cropper, Robin Trower, James Hunter, Grammy Award Winner Mavis Staples, Sherman Robertson, Sharrie Williams and Mud Morganfield, who will be performing on the International Stage.

But it’s not all music, there is plenty for families too.

There will also be buskers providing their own kind of Blues music at the war memorial, the Food Village and outside Pendle Leisure Centre, between 1-30 p.m. and 8 p.m. on Saturday, Sunday and Monday.

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Back by popular demand, a selection of street entertainers will be showing off their crazy antics along Albert Road between 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. on Sunday.

And new for 2011, there will be face-painting and a chance to put your mark on a giant life-painting at the memorial between 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. on Sunday and Monday.

Even if you don’t have your tickets yet, the Muni Box Office is open all weekend.

If you’re not bothered about seeing the big names and just want to soak up the atmosphere, you can buy a Pledge Badge for just £5.50, which will give you access to the British Stage, the Acoustic Stage and five roadhouses, working out at just £1.40 per day.

For more information on the festival, visit www.bluesfestival.co.uk.

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