ROCKERS young and old headed out in the sunshine at Queens Park to enjoy the first ever Boltfest.

The event, which kicked off this afternoon and continues tonight and tomorrow, features more than 30 bands across two stages over the Bank Holiday Weekend.

An estimated 3,000 packed into the park on Saturday, with families, teenagers and dedicated music fans all making the most of the fine weather to catch a glimpse of their favourite bands.

The main stage of the event features a selection of cover bands imitating some of the most famous names in rock, such as Guns and Roses, Led Zeppelin and Foo Fighters.

The festival's second stage gave an opportunity for up and coming bands playing original material to play in front of a large crowd.

There was also a range of stalls, bars, food tents to keep music fans refreshed, as well as activities such as slides, bouncy castles and face painting to keep the younger rocker happy.

Entry to the festival is free, but fans had to reserve a ticket and pay a £2.90 booking fee, with VIP passes also available for £10.

A family among the crowds who had particular reason to celebrate was Angela Taylor and Terry Nicholson from Tonge Moor, who were with their 13 month old son Vinny Nicholson, as Terry successfully proposed the previous day.

Young Vinny was sporting a T-shirt featuring American rock band Kiss, and was at home soaking in the guitar riffs and drum solos as his older counterparts.

Angela said: "We were always planning to go to a music festival but I fell pregnant with Vinny so that put a stop to it, but we are trying to bed him in and brake him in young.

"He really enjoys listening to Jimi Hendrix, Black Sabbath and The Jam."

Hardened rock fan Bob Healey came to the festival with his best friend Julie Tonks, both from Bromley Cross.

Bob, aged 58, who is attending both days of the event, says this type of festival is great for Bolton in promoting live music.

He said: "It is brilliant, this is just what Bolton needs. There is a few things happening in pubs in Bolton but to get it on such a big scale is great."

John and Cassandra White, who travelled from Wigan for the day, said they were impressed with the festival.

John, aged 39, said: "It is really good for the small price that you are paying. We came down early to see the Pantera tribute band, and we have really enjoyed it so far."

Jeff Howat, who lives off Chorley New Road, added: "As someone who cannot play a note, I am just in awe and in appreciation of what these musicians can do.

"It is fantastic for live music, which is something that is getting harder and harder to find."