RECYCLING will take centre stage at a music festival next month.

Recycling bins for cans and bottles will be provided at this year's two-day Richmond Live festival.

Hundreds of music fans are expected to gather at the Batts, in Richmond, on August 5 and 6 to see 32 live bands.

Richmond Live's creative director, Mike Jinks, said: "We create about 20 tonnes of rubbish each year. We are glad to be able to include recycling in the clean-up operation.

"We are also extremely grateful for the help of Richmond Pride volunteer litter-pickers and also Bargain Booze in Richmond for sponsoring the clear-up."

New at this year's festival will be a band showcase, which will replace the dance event on the Friday night.

The final of the battle of the bands competition will also be on Friday.

On Saturday, prog rock group Mostly Autumn will headline.

The event is sponsored by Magic 11.70 and the Black Sheep Brewery, from Masham.

The bins have been provided by Richmondshire District Council.

For a full festival line-up, visit www.richmondlive.org

To volunteer at the event, call (01748) 824626.