A SURGE of interest has greeted plans for a memorial stage dedicated to a Colne singing sensation.

Promoters of the Great British Rhythm and Blues Festival say a number of bands have signed up to take part in auditions for the Jessica Foxley stage at the August event.

Jessica, who worked in the Muni box office, was killed in a car crash alongside boyfriend Tom Petty and their friend Philip Wright in July 2009.

Last year acts were confined to the British Stage’s final night but performers will take up slots across the running order this time around.

Bands still interested can e-mail info@bluesfestival.co.uk before Friday, April 29.

Successful entrants will also get the chance to produce their own demo at Nelson ACE Centre’s Studio 11.