BLUES fans are gearing up for this year's August Bank Holiday Great British Rhythm and Blues Festival in Colne.

Opening night on the August 22 will feature UK acts the NuBlues and Scott McKeon, who will be joined by The Convulsions from the USA.

This year is the 14th anniversary of the world-renowned festival.

Joe Hollywood kicks off Saturday's entertainment, which continues on into the night with Mo Indigo providing the grand finale.

Gary Hood, festival organiser, said: "This year's programme is one of the most exciting we've ever put together.

"We have US acts that are playing a British stage for the first time, a host of legendary UK acts and some really exciting up and coming artists."

Benedictine Liqueur is the main sponsor for the second year and representatives will be on hand to provide a free taste of the tipple.

The event, which attracted more than 60,000 people last year, will run from August 22 to August 25 with more than 600 artists performing at various venues.

Major names include Savoy Brown, Sven Zetterberg, Lazy Lester and Anthony Gomes with Colne Municipal Hall hosting the main international stage.

There will also be roadhouse sessions at pubs around Colne and the acoustic stage at the Lesser Municipal Hall.