THE days of reggae and Ska are set to return to Darwen after a leading 80s group signed up to perform at the town's live music festival.

The Selecter are to play on the main stage at this year's event, now in its third year, which takes place in and around Darwen town centre on June 1, 2 and 3.

Accompanying The Selecter will be The Skadivas, featuring Pauline Black, Rhoda Dakar from the Bodysnatchers and later Special AKA, and Jennie Bellestar from the Bellestars.

They will perform hits from the heyday of Ska, Rock Steady, Reggae and 2 Tone. Included in this will be anthems such as 'On My Radio', 'Three Minute Hero', 'Lets Do Rock Steady', 'Free Nelson Mandela', 'Sign of The Times', 'Iko Iko' and 'The Clapping Song'.

Also appearing at the event will be Abdelkader Saaduon, Doctor Brown's Blues, The Winchesters and, featuring at Darwen Library Theatre, Rhythms of African Dance. A number of the local pubs will also be hosting bands over the weekend and the event will feature the 2nd Darwen Real Ale Festival.

The event is produced by Blackburn with Darwen Council and is part of the 2002 festivals and events programme.

Council executive member for leisure and culture Coun Kate Hollern said: "This is the first big event of the summer and we expect it to be sensational.

"We have worked hard over the winter to improve and strengthen the events.

"There is something for all the family."

For more information on the 2002 festivals and events programme, contact the festivals and events section on (01254) 682000/587939.