ONE of Europe's largest street festivals gets under way today as performers from around the world converge on the region.

The 16th Stockton International Riverside Festival is split into two distinct phases this year.

The Hits Music Weekend takes place from today until Sunday at the Riverside, where the outdoor stage will be home to some of the biggest names in pop music.

Tomorrow, Atlantic Soul Messengers, the Wildcats of Kilkenny and 1980s legends The Proclaimers will take to the stage for a free night of music.

Brutus Gold's Love Train will pull into town on Saturday, and the musical offerings come to a climax on Sunday with the tfm Live concert, featuring Kym Marsh, Gareth Gates and the Sugababes.

From Tuesday until Sunday, August 3, street theatre comes to the fore, with highlights including the return of the Moulin Rouge in the Parish Gardens.

The 100-year-old Belgian mirror tent will offer free shows until 4pm, then in the evenings ticket-only attractions include music from some of the country's top tribute bands, stand-up comedy and Doctor Haze's Carnival of the Bizarre.

From next Thursday until Saturday, August 2, some of the world's most unusual and imaginative street theatre will be performed throughout the town centre with performers from the UK, France, Japan and Canada.

The festival will draw to a close on Sunday, August 3, with the KTO production Aquatic Parade.

Festival co-ordinator Kevin McAuley said: "Once again, the strong reputation of Stockton International Riverside Festival means we have been able to attract some of the world's best street theatre.

"Mix that with home-grown talent, up-and-coming artists and a high level of community involvement, and you have an eclectic mix of performances guaranteed to appeal to all audiences."

For festival information, log on to www.sirf.co.uk or call the festival inquiry lines on (01642) 676702 or (01642) 676850. For tfm Live tickets, call 0870 120 6555.