UP and coming East Lancashire bands can win a chance to play at a major festival this summer.

Blackburn with Darwen Council is giving local talent the opportunity to appear alongside big names at its annual Arts in The Park Festival.

The festival will be taking place during the weekend of July 22 and 23 in Witton Country Park.

A council spokeswoman said: "As well as the many high profile performing artists who are set to grace the festival's main stage, Arts in the Park is as much about promoting our own local and regional talent.

"The alternative stage offers the opportunity for local bands to play to a large festival audience and to share the billing with some big national names."

The organisers of the alternative stage are holding a series of audition nights at Blakey's Caf Bar, at the King George's Hall complex.

Auditions will take place on Wednesday, June 21, and Thursday, June 22, beginning at 7pm.

They are open to bands of all age groups from live dance acts to acoustic, rock, and punk bands.

The spokeswoman added: "This is a great gig opportunity that can lead, for the successful musical act, a place on this year's festival performance bill.

"Audience numbers and reaction will be an important factor in the selection process."

For an audition slot, contact Jon McCaughey, Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council Comm-unity Project via email at jon.mccaughey@blackburn.gov.uk or by telephone on 664540.