ONE of the UK's most influential new wave bands has been announced as the headline act for this year's Darwen Live festival on May 29.

The Blockheads will play live in Darwen town centre as part of the free bank holiday weekend event, which attracts thousands of music lovers.

With lead singer Ian Dury, The Blockheads had a string of hits including Hit Me With Your Rhythm Stick' and Sex and Drugs and Rock and Roll'.

The band will be celebrating their 30th anniversary next year and the line-up still includes four original members, including Chaz Jankel, who co-wrote a number of their biggest hits.

The Blockheads have continued to tour around the world since the death of Ian Dury from cancer and have a great reputation as a live act.

Darwen Live organiser Gary Ward said: "We are very pleased to have signed up The Blockheads.

"I think they will create a really special atmosphere at the festival."

The Blockheads will play in Darwen town centre on Monday, May 29.