HISTORIC Rivington Terraced Gardens is set to form the stunning backdrop to a three-day festival.

Toploader and Republica will headline the gathering, alongside Bolton School old boy and DJ Mark Radcliffe, Bez from the Happy Mondays and Clint Boon, of Inspiral Carpets fame, next month.

Mark, also patron of Rivington Terraced Gardens, said: “Summer wouldn’t be summer without festivals. It’s fantastic news the Rivington Music Festival can go ahead, bigger and better than before.

“We’re confident it’ll raise a good portion of the funds needed to keep up the good work of the volunteers in maintaining the glory of this unique corner of Britain.”

Previously one-day events in 2018 and 2019, the festival was cancelled last year because of the pandemic but is back from July 16 to 18.

Andrew Suter, the venue's projects manager, said: “We’re excited to be able to hold the music festival after being hit by lockdown restrictions that have had a huge impact on our fundraising. This music festival is the first of many events we have planned.

“We’re looking forward to welcoming crowds and supporters of the gardens and rewarding them for all their help in keeping us going through these tricky times.”

New for 2021 is a VIP bar with a Japanese theme, to tie in with the historic Japanese Garden, featuring an Oriental-hemed drinks menu.

Hot and cold refreshments will also be on sale, with Northern Monkey running the bars.

Organisers hope the event establishes itself as a firm favourite on the festival circuit as it continues to grow.

The festival will open with a Legends Night from 7pm, featuring broadcasting legend Mark, Bez and Clint Boon and local DJ John William Leather.

The Saturday line-up from 1pm to 10.30pm, features Republica, Red Electrick, Good Foxy, Driftwood, Jeremiah Ferrari, Joe McAdam, Pete McDonna and Be My Band.

Toploader will take to the stage on Sunday, with the festival again open from 1pm to 10.30pm, Design Rewind, Magari, TVOD, Ellysse Mason, Taylor Paisley-French, Casper Mason and Marc Winstanley will support.

Adult tickets are available from £14, child tickets from £6, weekend tickets are also on sale.

To book tickets visit www.rivingtonterracedgardens.org.uk