MORE than 8,000 music fans are expected to head for a former pit town today for an annual blues festival.

The free event at Stanley, County Durham, is being held in a giant marquee on the town's Kings Head Field and will attract blues lovers from across the region and beyond.

It is being staged by Consett studio Northern Recording, with sponsorship coming from Durham County Council and Derwentside District Council.

Topping the bill is North-East-born harmonica player Paul Lamb and his band, The Kingsnakes. He is the first Geordie to be the popular festival's headline act.

Big Joe Turner used to play bass for guitar legend BB King and he will be in the festival line-up with his seven-piece band, Memphis Blues Caravan.

The Nightporters, from Torquay, Scottish boogie band Blues 'n' Trouble and The Watts 'n' Whiffin Big Band, from Langley Park, complete the programme.

Century Radio talk-in host and comedian Mike The Mouth Elliott will compere the show.

The festival runs from noon until 6pm. Refreshments are available.