COME along to Colne and have a great time, that's the message to music lovers from the organisers of the Great Rhythm and Blues Festival which kicks off in style tonight.

Over 60,000 people are expected to flock to Colne over the Bank Holiday weekend as some of the biggest names in R&B head to East Lancashire.

Festival organiser Gary Hood said: "We believe we've got a very strong bill. Now we just want people to come and enjoy themselves."

As ever, the Municipal Hall plays host to the main international stage. Among the acts taking part are Lucky Peterson, renowned as one of the world's leading bluesmen and a rare visitor to the UK.

Other headliners are guitar virtuoso Eric Sardinas, Tommy Castro and Big George Jackson.

Tonight's opening show in the main arena is already a sell-out and tickets are selling fast for the remaining three days.

"Certainly if you're thinking of coming I'd recommend you get your tickets in advance to avoid disappointment," said Gary.

This year the Benedictine Roadhouse at Pendle Leisure Centre will offer some of the best up-and-coming talent around.

Admission is via a festival pledge pin available for a minimum donation of just £1 with all proceeds helping meet the cost of the event.

Pledge pins are available from the main festival office and from offic1al vendors.

But there is so much more to the festival than the two main stages. A thriving fringe has grown up over the years -- this year's the 13th time Colne has hosted the event.

Virtually every pub and cafe in the town will be organising some form of entertainment.

On Sunday and Monday there will be a fairground for revellers to enjoy, offering something for everyone.

"The diversity of acts and events is one of the great strengths of the festival," said Gary. "It makes it what it is."

Organisers have gone to great lengths to minimise the number of glasses being carried on to the streets by encouraging pubs to serve drinks in plastic glasses during the four days.

Over the years Colne has become one of the most prestigious festivals in the R&B calendar and music lovers from all over the country will have had the dates pencilled in for months.

"Everything is set for a great four days," said Gary.

"If you're looking for good music and a great atmosphere, then you'll certainly find it in Colne over the next few days."

For up-to-the-minute information about the festival and tickets, contact the festival hotline 0870 909 3399.