PLANS to host a large outdoor music festival in Shildon are gathering pace as the line-up of bands is nearly finalised.

The family orientated festival, dubbed Shildonbury Party in the Park, will be held in Hackworth Park on Sunday, August 24.

It is being organised by Crook-based music promoter Wannasee and Shildon Town Council.

Gates open at 1.30pm with fun fair rides and face painting amongst the activities on offer while the bands will take to the stage between 2pm and 11pm.

Several tribute acts, such as Maroon 4, The Bryan Adams Experience and the Ultra 90s will be joined by local bands like The Last Fakers and Robson Field.

Paul Watson, Shildon Civic Hall manager, said: “We’re waiting to see if several other bands will agree to come along, but it should be a good fun day for people of all ages.”

A section of the park will be enclosed with a stage erected. Alcohol and food will be available but security guards will be on patrol to eject troublemakers.

Entry to the site will be by ticket only. Prices have still to be confirmed but the advanced tickets are set to be £12.50 for adults, £7.50 for those aged between ten and 17 and free to under-tens.

They can be obtained from Shildon Town Council on 01388-772563 or Shildon Civic Hall on 01388-772902.