SOME of the biggest names in popular music are lined up to appear at King George's Hall, Blackburn, over the coming month.

The town centre venue has a growing reputation and the completion of recent renovation work means that over 2,000 people can watch acts in the main hall.

Major names such as Paul Weller, Ian Brown and Louise have recently included Blackburn dates in their national tours and now there's a great deal more to look forward to.

On Friday, May 3 the '80s will come rocking back when The Alarm headline an evening to remember. Providing support will be The Mighty Wah! and Spear of Destiny.

The Alarm, led by Mike Peters, had a string of top 10 hits including 68 Guns and Where Were You Hiding When The Storm Broke and were widely recognised as being a great live act.

The support bands feature two of the most influential figures from the '80s scene in Pete Wylie and Kirk Brandon. Tickets cost £14.

The following night, Saturday, May 4, Graham Gouldman celebrates 30 years of 10cc. From the early '70s, 10cc were one of Britain's most successful chart acts with a string of hits including Donna, Rubber Bullets and I'm Not In Love and several Top 20 albums.

Supporting Gouldman, who wrote hits for other acts including The Hollies and The Yardbirds, will be Benny Gallagher and his band reviving the hits of Gallagher and Lyle. Tickets start at £14.50.

Another famous name heading for Blackburn is legendary drummer Carl Palmer.

As one-third of the revered Emerson Lake and Palmer and a founder member of prog rock supergroup Asia, Palmer is sure to attract fans from a wide area.

He will be accompanied by guitarist Shaun Baxter and bassist Dave Marks for An Evening With Carl Palmer, featuring classic ELP tracks plus work from Palmer's more recent releases.

Celtic rockers Runrig will be bringing their unique sound to King George's Hall on Saturday, May 18.

One of the most influential Scottish bands, Runrig blend traditional instruments with rock and a lively stage presence. Tickets are available from £18.50.

Then on Sunday, May 19, Paul Young, will make his long-awaited appearance in Blackburn.

Young has had a string of top 10 hits including Love of the Common People, Wherever I Lay My Hat and Every Time You Go Away.

Tickets start at £14.50.