THE first ever Whalley Live Festival has put the village back on the map, according to organisers.

And it is hoped the two-day weekend event will even rival the famous Pickwick Night.

Tristian Jumgbluth, manager at Whalley Arms, his soon to be brother-in-law Paul Derbyshire and the pub’s owner Guy Cornwell organised this weekend's entertainment.

More than 2,000 people turned up to listen to nine live bands and enjoy a hog roast and cider festival.

Paul Derbyshire, who runs Manchester-based company Avid Promotions, secured bands including OCD, The Loaded Dice, Rude Moods and The Big Headlines.

Today there was the UK's largest Titanic inflatable, face painting and kids disco to help families celebrate Father's Day.

Whalley Chamber of Trade first came up with the idea before asking the Whalley Arms and other pubs in the area to help bring the festival to life.

All of the pubs in Whalley got on board and held live events with the farmers' market, stalls and much more.

Tristian, who is now planning next year's event, said: “Everybody has said this has put Whalley back on the map and this is what Whalley has needed for a long time.

“The atmosphere has been electric. People have told us that it was brilliant and great.

“We would have been happy if 200 people had turned up to the festival but there were at least 400 people at the gigs.

“But for a small gig it was so relaxing and had the feel good factor.

“Saturday was brilliant and went very well. Sunday was a more of a family day.

“It is the first time we have done it and hopefully it will rival Pickwick Night.

“We just want to thank everybody who came down to the festival and everyone who helped.”