BUDDING musicians and established artists are taking to the stage at Bishop Auckland College’s arts and music festival next weekend.

Organisers are hoping to attract over 4,000 visitors to the two-day musical extravaganza, which takes place on land adjacent to the college’s new premises on Woodhouse Lane on June 26 and 27.

The festival will be opened by two Bishop Auckland-based bands - Red Hot Chilli Peppers tribute act, Blood Sugar Sex Magik, starting at 5.15pm, followed by KillCafe at 6pm.

A battle of the bands starts at 7pm, offering winners a recording session at the college’s new studios which open in September.

The headlining act, Atlantic Soul Messengers, start at 9pm.

There are ten hours of live music on Saturday, starting at noon with Larry and the Penguins, from St John’s School in Bishop Auckland.

Other performances that day include Beatles and Kinks tribute act Early Birds, an acoustic hour with Phil Graham and former college student Bob Walker, and Proximity Effect, who are based at the college.

Headliners Dr Feelgood start at 9pm.

Away from the main stage, other attractions include fairground rides, a beer tent, childrens’ craft activities, and stalls.

Kevin Burns, marketing manager at Bishop Auckland College, said: "We are hoping to attract twice as many visitors as last year, especially if the weather is on our side.

"It promises to be an excellent event, not just for Bishop Auckland, but the rest of the district. It will help to raise the town’s profile, and promote the college’s new facilities and developments in art, performing arts, and music."

The event received £6,000 funding from Bishop Auckland Town Council, and £1,000 from Wear Valley District Council.

David Wilson, Mayor of Bishop Auckland, said: "This is the second year the town council is sponsoring the music festival because we want to provide a good family event that will bring people into the town.

"It will also encourage talent in the area, especially through the Battle of the Bands on the Friday evening."

Admission into the festival is free on both days. For information, and to see the full line-up, visit: www.bishopaucklandcollege.ac.uk.