SUMMER wouldn’t be summer without a music festival.

In June music lovers can experience festival fever right here in Bolton as the Bolton Punks Picnic returns in June to recreate the popular 1980s scene.

People will be able to relive the era in Queens Park with a picnic before the music takes to the stage – indoors and outdoors – at the Alma Inn from late afternoon.

The music event has been organised by Punkboot Promotions, set up by Martin Unsworth and Angelina Johnson to raise the profile of grassroots punk and Oi! Bands.

Last summer’s event attracted more than 60 people to the picnic and more than 200 to the live music at the Bradshawgate venue, which was recently voted that North West’s best small rock venue.

Martin said: “In the 1980s Punk’s picnics were part of the Punk calendar in many towns across the UK and were well attended.

“We hadn’t had one in Bolton for a very long time, but we’d started to put punk gigs on in Bolton and were asked by local punks to organise one, so we gave them what they wanted.

“Feedback was very positive, and we were asked to do it all again.

“A picnic is just that, a picnic, and an opportunity for people to get together, chat about the old days, and enjoy a day in the sun. People brought their kids and grandkids. It was a good day out in a great park and brought back a lot of memories for some. Later in the day, the adults continued the fun The Alma Inn and over 200 people attended the event.”

Up to 14 bands will take to the stage at the Punks Picnic on Saturday, June 16. Those down to appear include The Reverends, Wasted Life, Epic Problems and Run off The Static..

“This year people can expect a mix of grass roots punk and Oi bands, including local bands and some old established bands still plying their trade. The line-up is on our Facebook page and you can expect up to 14 bands from around the country and Scotland,” said Martin, “Older punks brought their children and grandchildren to the park for the picnic and some older offspring attended the gig during the day, but being in the spirit of punk it’s not a place for very young children as the dancing can get a bit lively.

“The venue has a policy of under 18s being accompanied by an adult but this event was very much and is billed as an adult event.”

He added: “Bolton Punks Picnic is a proven success and will hopefully remain a part of their event calendar.”

For a list of bands performing visit Bolton Punk Picnic 2018 Facebook Page.

For tickets and more information message Punkboot Promotions on Facebook or email punkboot@outlook.com or visit The Alma Inn, Bolton.