Alternative music festival staged in Burnley

Roxfest, featuring a host of rock, punk and alternative bands from the local area and beyond, will be be belting out tunes at the Sanctuary Rock Bar and Kestrel Suite in Cow Lane.

The festival was originally planned to take place in the Pendle countryside, but has been moved to Burnley town centre where it will run from tonight until Sunday.

Ally Black, one of the organisers, said: “This is the very first of what we hope to be an annual fear-themed Alternative Festival.

“It is to be hosted specifically to promote newcomers to the industry and help them achieve greater recognition for their talents.

“This year’s RoxFest will also host the official launch of The Rox Magazine in which all artists will have their own feature issue of The Rox in print.”

Collections and merchandise sales at the festival will be donated to the Sophie Lancaster Foundation, which aims to stamp out intolerance, hatred and prejudice, and The Animal Magic Foundation, which promotes animal welfare.

The first band takes to the stage at 4pm on Friday with other acts starting at 1pm on Saturday and Sunday with the final act finishing at 1am on Monday.

Lisa Wyllie, Sanctuary owner, said: “This is very exciting for us and could finally put us on the map as a nationally recognised live music venue.

“There are more than 50 bands travelling from all over, including one band from Germany, for this festival.

“Also, we are still running our pre-booked events including fancy dress on Friday, Motley Crew tribute band on Saturday and quiz on Sunday.”

Tickets cost £6 for Friday, and £10 each for Saturday and Sunday which allows access to both venues.

There will be refreshment stalls and merchandising. For more information visit www.roxfest.co.uk.