CALLING all local bands and comedians - a brand new summer festival is being planned for the Ribble Valley.

Organiser Marco Vaghetti, of Bthere Events based in Ribchester, is hoping to hold the Mitton Music Festival in the grounds of the Aspinall Arms and is currently in discussion with Ribble Valley Council.

The three-day event which is planned from Friday, July 11 until Sunday, July 13, is being loosely based on the concept of the legendary festival that is Glastonbury.

And Marco even has plans to arrange camping for up to 500 people on land adjacent to the pub in true Glastonbury style.

Marco said: "I was just sick and tired of there being nothing really ever going on in the summer in the Ribble Valley and wanted to do something about it.

"There are only so many days you can just sit and enjoy the countryside.

"I really want this event to be something for your friends, children, parents, grandparents and even your pet goat.

"It is just in the planning stages now but has the potential to be excellent.

"It will be like a mini Glastonbury, with something for everyone."

Should the festival get the go-ahead Marco has plans for a beer tent, barbecue and a special VIP area.

Already a number of acts have expressed an interest to perform including The Ragamuffins from Clitheroe, Left Hand Scratch from Blackburn, Tom Hunt and Sketchers both from Leeds, DJ Andy1Deck from London and Sian Sofia from Paris.

Marco, who is currently looking for local companies to sponsor the event, is hoping different types of bands will sign up in order to cater for all tastes and age ranges.

Everyone attending will be asked to come in fancy dress with a prize for the most bizarre costumes.

The organisers have also planned for a secure area for children, the elderly and disabled at the front of the Aspinall Arms.

As well as a showcase event, for bands members of the public will also have their five minutes of fame with an opportunity for them to entertain the crowd.

First time performers will be encouraged to get up on the main stage to play a song or tell a joke in between bands.

l If you are a local band or comedian and are interested in playing the event, or a company interested in sponsoring it, please contact Marco on 0780 161 6103 or email bthereevents@hotmail.co.uk.