AN exciting line-up has been announced for the 15th Burnley National Blues Festival which will see some legendeary names heading to the Mechanics.

Widely recognised as one of the finest festivals in the country, the Burnley event has a worldwide appeal. This has resulted in the organisers linking up with the Chicago Blues Festival to bring a host of well known names across the Atlantic.

Already lined up for the three-day event are such major names as Eddie Clearwater, Willie Kent and Bonnie Lee -- all major names on the renowned Delmar recording label.

A great treat for Blues lovers will be the first appearance at a modern British Blues festival by Bobby Parker.

Returning to East Lancashire will be showman supreme Eric Sardinas, whose guitar playing and charismatic style wowed the crowds at this year's Colne festival.

Other names to feature on the bill are Otis Grand and Mike Andersen.

As well as the main stage at Burnley Mechanics -- the traditional home of the festival -- there will be a Festival Stage downstairs in Oliver's bar. New for the 2003 event is the late night club which will be bhosted by a different 'good time' band each night.

As well as the main festival events, music lovers can look forward to a series of Blues Cruises along the Leeds-Liverpool Canal plus the festival fringe where local clubs, pubs and bars get into the party mood with a host of entertainment laid on.

A festival brochure will be available from February. Full festival tickets are available for £50, single day tickets cost £15 for Friday and £22 for either the Saturday or Sunday. For further information, contact Burnley Mechanics on 01282 664400.