BOLTON'S Badly Drawn Boy is to headline a free music festival in Manchester next weekend aimed at tackling racism.

The one-day Unity Festival, organised by charities Unite Against Facism and Love Music Hate Racism, will bring an eclectic line-up of British music to Castlefield, Manchester.

Badly Drawn Boy, aka Damon Gough, tops the bill on Sunday, May 30, with his unique folk-pop stylings and trademark unkempt appearance.

He will perform hits from his acclaimed albums "Hour of Bewilderbeast" and "Have you Fed the Fish?", and will preview material to be included on his forthcoming release.

The event also features Leeds indie kids The Music, with their eccentric brand of psychedelic rock, alongside the more melodic guitar-led Haven.

UK hip-hop lovers will have the chance to hear new material from digital radio's 1Extra presenters Rodney P and Skitz, who will be previewing forthcoming material as well as tracks from Skitz's albums "Countryman" and "Homegrown".

Manchester's own up-and-coming rap talent Broke 'n' English and the Northern Monkeys will also be there. The event will start at noon and runs until 8pm. Entry is free, but people are advised to arrive early. Donations to either organising charity on the day are welcome.