RAMSBOTTOM is set to play host to its first-ever blues festival.

The 2004 Thwaites Beers Ramsbottom Rhythm and Blues Festival, the newest in the North-west, will bring a three-day feast of live musical talent and top-drawer acts to the town on the weekend of June 18.

Thousands of followers are expected to flock to see more than 40 bands at at least four venues.

The event, promoted by Bury Council, will boast an array of high-profile performers such as Paul Lamb, Snake Davis and Slack Alice on the main stage at Ramsbottom Civic Hall with further free appearances being held at the The Royal Oak, Grant Arms and Clarence pubs.

A steam-hauled "Blues Train", run by the East Lancashire Railway will transport festival-goers from Bury and Rawtenstall.