HUNDREDS of young people are expected to flock to a free arts and music festival this weekend.

U-fest U-fest, billed as a festival to celebrate all young people in Sunderland, will be held at Herrington Country Park between 1pm and 9pm tomorrow.

The event will see 13 of the North-East's hottest new bands performing live on two stages - one in the park's new amphitheatre and a second acoustic stage.

Bands taking part include ATF, Pincer Movement, Micawba, Hucked, Hi-met, Nameless, Baby Rattle Snakes, G-nome, Muddy Bee, Crossman Guillotine, Idols are Higher, Solomon's Burden and Joyriders.

There will also be a talent show for other budding entertainers, a dance marquee and arts, crafts and information technology workshops, a drugs education roadshow and youth information stall.

Entry is by wristband only, which have been distributed through the city's youth clubs and at events such as the Kite Festival.