THOUSANDS of music fans from across the North-East were treated a free festival when a town centre became a stage yesterday.

More than 40,000 revellers were estimated to be at Middlesbrough Music Live to see big-name artists such as seventies glam star Steve Harley, rock band Reef and Danish chart stars Junior Senior.

More than 100 live acts performed on eight stages over ten hours throughout the day.

People took advantage of the warm weather earlier in the day sitting outside in the sun drinking beer and soft drinks.

Groups of music lovers of all ages milled from stage to stage enjoying the carnival atmosphere.

It was the perfect opportunity to showcase local talent and the home-grown music ranged from pop and rock to jazz and blues.

As night drew in, the crowds swelled for the main attractions and organiser Graham Ramsay heralded the day a great success.

"This was by far and away the best Music Live there has been yet," said Mr Ramsay, who booked the bands for Middlesbrough Council.

"The atmosphere was great and people looked really happy, they were obviously all enjoying themselves.

"There is nothing like this anywhere else in the country so it is something we should be proud of.

"It is good for the image of Middlesbrough and I feel we have really got through to people outside the town this year to let them know what we are doing.

"It is good thing for the confidence of the town and something we can build on."

As well as the music, attractions including an inflatable art gallery in Central Gardens had people queuing throughout the day. Inside was a digital video jukebox with films from international artists.

The day cost £100,000 to organise and was funded by agencies on Teesside, with Middlesbrough Council paying half the bill.

Mr Ramsay said: "We've worked long and hard to ensure that the whole day would be quality from start to finish.

"With Music Live, it's not just about the big names. We're after bands that can entertain, and I think that's what we got."

"It's really putting the town on the map, and if the people of Middlesbrough get behind this, then undoubtedly we can go on to get even bigger and better in years to come."