HUNDREDS of blues fans gathered for a free music festival, as a North-East town grooved and swayed to the beat.

The band Mungo Jerry, famous for its 1970 hit In the Summertime, was the headliner at the annual Darlington Rhythm and Blues festival, on Sunday (September 14).

Overcast weather failed to dim the enthusiasm of the hundreds-strong crowd, who gave warm appreciation to all the acts on stage.

Also on the bill were the Marcus Malone Band and Groove-a-Matics.

A thriving fringe festival, featuring more than a dozen acts, was held in and around a handful of town centre venues, including the Pennyweight, Quakerhouse, Hole in the Wall and Boot and Shoe pubs.

Mike Prendergast, from festival organisers Darlington R'n'B Club, said: "It has gone really well, we have been very pleased.

"The rain has more or less held off, which is good, and it's a really happy, feel-good festival, as it usually is."

The club meets in The Forum Music Centre, in Borough Road, where regular gigs are held.

For more information, visit darlington-r-n-b-club.co.uk