FESTIVALGOERS turned out en masse for one of Bolton's biggest music events of the year.

Around 5,000 people descended on Queen's Park for the first day of this weekend's Boltfest, with some 7,000 expected to attend on Sunday.

Families are enjoying music from more than 40 live bands, including some of the greatest names in rock history.

Organiser Jools Taylor, from Westhoughton, said: "It is fantastic as always. Every year it gets bigger and bigger.

"This all started out of a passion for music. I was brought up on festivals. It is in my DNA.

"We have got another really good turn out and we have been really lucky with the weather.

"Saturday is very rock-focused and tomorrow the crowd will be even larger, with people listening to Queen, David Bowie, Stereophonics and other brilliant tributes."

The band line-up on Saturday features music by tribute bands Mentallica, Green Days, Motorheadache and Paramore or Less.

Also performing were Martin Henderson, Jack White, Alan Dawes and Paul Richardson, of Van Hailen — a tribute to the music of Dave Lee Roth era Van Halen.

The band said: "The atmosphere is tremendous. It is a chance to play in front of friends.

"It is a big stage, outdoor, it is a family event. We wish they did something like this in Newcastle."

Meanwhile, Sunday will see performances by Tommy Holland as Elvis, Mused, Queenesque, Mc Fleetwood and more.

In addition to the music, a wide range of food is available, as well as a number of beer tents.

The festival is also staging funfair attractions for families, virtual reality experiences, competitions and stalls to browse.

Jolene Dawson-Gore, attended the festival with husband Paul and their seven-year-old son Sawyer, for the second year running.

Mrs Dawson-Gore, from the Wirral, said: "We have been here all day.

"This is on a par with last year, if not better.

"We like softer music but our little guy likes the heavier stuff. Our highlight is Bon Jovi but his is heavy metal band Pantera. Sawyer told all his school teachers he was going to the festival."

Sisters Julie McLoughlin and Tina Gibson, from Breightmet, said: "We have come for the day. The music is brilliant. The weather has been fantastic."

Tickets, which must be bought online in advance, are free with a booking fee of £3.50 at boltfest.com or ticketline.co.uk.