THE PARTY has only just begun!

If last night's opener was anything to go by, the Great British Rhythm and Blues Festival is once again set to leave its mark on music lovers making their annual pilgrimage to Colne.

For the next three days up to 60,000 fans are expected to pour into East Lancashire to sample the finest blues sounds from both sides of the Atlantic.

Last night Sixties' legend Arthur Lee took to the stage of Colne Municipal Hall to act as MC for the evening, and introduced a variety of artists to please all tastes.

Headliner Billy Branch wowed them until the early hours with his classical, Chicago-style harp playing.

Earlier in the night guitars were very much to the fore, with Larry Miller getting things underway in fine style, before Divided by Three and then Rab McCulloch powered their way through impressive sets.

Today promises to be something of a classic with a number of big names on the bill. Among those taking part will be Doug Jay, who went down a storm at the festival last year. Then it is the turn of one of the brightest young American talents around, Sean Costello who will give way to the undisputed queen of the festival Sista Monica Parker. Rounding off the night are legendary British R&B outfit Dr Feelgood.

Tomorrow you'd be advised to get your dancing shoes on with King Pleasure and the Biscuit Boys, Earl Thomas, and showman supreme Eddy 'The Chief' Clearwater on the bill.

Then on Monday the festival headliner, Mighty Mo Rodgers, is sure to dominate proceedings.

More than 600 artists will be performing at this year's festival, with a host of fringe venues open both day and night.

For further details contact the festival hotline on 01282 6611234.