THE first details have emerged of the annual Middlesbrough Music Live festival.

The festival, which is now into its fifth year, has previously seen appearances from bands including The Darkness and Keane.

This year's event will take place on Sunday, June 19.

The event, organised by Middlesbrough Council, has become one of the biggest free music festivals in the region.

Last year, Bloc Party, Kasabian and Goldie Lookin' Chain played to crowds of more than 40,000.

Festival promoter Graham Ramsay said plans were already in place to ensure this year's event will be bigger than previous years.

He said: "We are looking to add another couple of stages to this year's Music Live. And as ever we will be going all out to bring the best possible acts to Middlesbrough."

The festival is being held slightly later in the year than its usual May Bank Holiday date.

Judith Croft, of Middlesbrough Council, said: "The North-East music scene is absolutely vibrant at the moment, and it was important to avoid clashing with similar events around the region. And hopefully, holding the festival in June we have a better chance of seeing some sunshine."

Moving the event to June will also ensure the festival takes place during the traditional music festival season.

The official Music Live site will soon be online at www.middlesbroughmusiclive.co.uk, and organisers said the first news of confirmed acts was expected very shortly.

Published: 29/03/2005