BANDS with names like Groovyhead and Gumbo Ya Ya will be rocking the pubs of Upton on Friday and Saturday, July 19 and 20, at the town's first ever blues festival.

The event is being held in response to the International Oliver Cromwell Jazz Festival, which some felt did not cater sufficiently for blues fans.

It will play host to more than a dozen bands and, compared to the jazz festival, will be relatively small-scale affair.

But spokeswoman Rachael Willoughby said organisers wanted to keep it that way, so that it remained within the confines of the town.

Gigs will run from 7pm on Friday and 1pm on Saturday and even those featuring headliners Mo'Indigo, Will Killeen and Michael Roach will be completely free. Licensees at each venue will pay for the bands that play there.

"We'll keep it free for as long we possibly can," promised Ms Willoughby. "We've no idea how many people are going to turn up but it promises to be a really good time, with a great atmosphere."

Publicity was funded by "blues cruises" in October and April, which raised £1,500. Local businesses have also funded the programme through adver- tising. The £2 cover price will help pay for next year's event.

The precise line-up with times and venues can only be found in the programme, now available from venues.

Other acts include Blues Hound, Boogie Band, Phil Collins Band, Howard Harper, J M Blues, Steve McQueen and the Bullitts, R E K, The Roosters and Stan Terry Band.

Venues include the Swan, King's Head, Plough, Anchor Inn, Talbot Head, Little Upton Muggery and Upton Sports Club.

Camping facilities are available and information on accommodation can be obtained from the tourist information centre on 01684 594200.

Information is also available on 01684 592146, by emailing Upton Blues Festival@zoom. co.uk, or at www.uptonbluesfestival.org.uk.