THE countdown to this year’s Great British Rhythm and Blues Festival in Colne is now on.

In just under four weeks, the town will be full of visitors for the four-day event. Artistes confirmed for the international stage include Rolling Stones icon Bill Wyman and his Rhythm Kings, former and legendary Cream star Ginger Baker and multi-Grammy Award winner Joe Louis Walker.

And Wilko Johnson will be performing what will probably be his last gig on the Monday evening.

Organiser Alison Goode, said: “With a fantastic line-up, a new official roadhouse, outdoor stage and family entertainment, the festival gets bigger and better.

“Hopefully this will be recognised in the British Blues Awards which we are hosting for the first time.”

Visit www.bluesfestival. co.uk.