FANS heading to a now annual blues, rhythm and rock festival this weekend have been alerted to a late change of venue.

The 7th Durham Blues Festival, which was to have been staged at the Rainton Meadows Arena, at Rainton Bridge, Houghton-le-Spring, on Saturday, has now been transferred to the Chilton Country Pub and Hotel, on Black Boy Road, in nearby Chilton Moor.

But there is no change to the festival line-up, with all seven acts performing in their allocated slot, from Felix Rabin, at 1.45 to the Climax Blues Band, at 8.40ppm.

Stephen Stanley, of event organisers and promoters. Solid Entertainments, apologised to ticket holders, but said the move was made due to logistical reasons.

“It’s not an ideal situation to change venue so close to the event, but it’s only a mile or so along the road and it has a good size function room, with all the necessary facilities, including restaurant, bar and bedrooms, on site, with plenty of available parking.”

Ticket holders are being alerted to the venue change but walk up entry is available on the day, while further information is available on www.durhambluesfestival.co.uk, or by ringing (01472) 349222.