MID-PENNINE Arts have unveiled a feast of summer music to more than make up for the loss of Glastonbury this year.

Now in its fifth year, Sound '96 in Accrington promises to be bigger and better than ever.

Starting at the beginning of August, the festival this year extends over 11 days in an extravaganza of music for all tastes.

It will culminate in the main event - a day of live music in Oak Hill Park, Accrington. Headlining will be Seven Little Sisters, a lively five-piece band from Nottingham who last summer stole the show at festivals around the country,

They will be supported by six of the best local bands, offering a range of styles from techno-worldbeat to punk rock retro.

All this, plus stalls and a fairground, food and street entertainers - and the entire day is free.

The week will get off to a whirlwind start on Saturday, August 3, with Mayhem, an event to raise the roof off the old Town Hall in Accrington.

Mayhem is a collaboration of artists and DJs from all over the North West working together to make their events a truly visual as well as musical experience. Tickets are £5.

Other events include The Rockers Society on Wednesday, August 7, a journey through the origins of rock 'n' roll.

Another fantastic night of live music will be on offer on Friday, August 9, at the town hall once again when Hedgepig, Mighty Asylum, Leash and Nobody's Heroes take the stage.

Tickets are £2.50.

Saturday will give us the unplugged acoustic sound of Guy Fox, Shelley, Pablo Fanques and the Blazing Snowmen.

Tickets are £2.

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