A MAJOR music festival is expected to attract 25,000 people to the region next month.

The Orange Evolution Music Festival is being held at three outdoor stages and more than 30 indoor venues with acts ranging from pop, blues and roots, and dance.

Performances will be given at venues across Tyneside from May 19 to 30, culminating on Bank Holiday Monday, May 30, with free events over three sites.

Maureen Dixon, from Orange, which is supporting the festival, said: "This year's festival promises to be the best yet.

"Orange Evolution is the major musical event in the region and the free day promises to be a real highlight, with a great line-up and not to be missed."

There are three main stages for revellers to enjoy.

The Innovation stage at Spillers Quay, Newcastle, will feature Super Furry Animals, Mylo, Dizzee Rascal, The Ordinary Boys and Dogs Die in Hot Cars, among others.

The Imagination Stage, at the Baltic Square, Gateshead, will concentrate on new music and in particular bands from the North-East, including The Futureheads, The Others, Carbon Silicone and Fightstar.

The Inspiration Stage is between the other two sites, on Newcastle Quayside East, and profiles Candi Staton, Misty in Roots, American Music Club and Martin Stephenson and The Daintees.

Rock act Spiritualized are to play a one-off gig at The Sage Gateshead, when they will perform for the first time songs from their new album.

Keith Merrin, acting creative director for the Newcastle-Gateshead Initiative, said: "A fantastic line-up is already confirmed, including some of the North-East's home grown talent, and over 25,000 people are expected to flock to the Quayside for what will be the city's biggest music event.