DURHAM is to play host to a one-day blues festival this summer that the organisers hope could become an annual event.

Promotions firm Solid Entertainments will hold it in Dunelm House, New Elvet, the Durham University Student Union Building The new event will be held by Grimsby-based Solid Entertainments on Saturday June 25 from 3 to 11pm with a main stage in the main hall, plus a smaller secondary stage.

The headline act will be Walter Trout, the New Jersey-born guitarist who has forged a highly successful solo career over the last two decades and has also played with later incarnations of Canned Heat and John Mayall’s Bluesbreakers.

He has released 20 albums and won audiences in America and Europe with his unique blend of blues and rock styles.

Former Dr Feelgood guitarist Wilko Johnson, who features in Oil City Confidential, the documentary film about the trailblazing Essex band, has also been lined up.

British blues prodigy Chantel McGregor, from Bradford, the classic 1970s rock-influenced band Mostly Autumn, and virtuoso guitarist Larry Miller have also been confirmed, with further additions to be announced later.

Advance tickets cost £24 - £29 on the day - and to launch the event Solid Entertainments are offering 200 early bird tickets for £19,.

They are available by calling the firm on (01472) 349222 between 9am and 5pm, through its website (www.solidentertainments.com) or in person from Dunelm House.