HOMEGROWN talent will grace the stage at a free two-day music event in Bolton next month.

The organisers of Boltfest, taking place at Queens Park over the bank holiday weekend of Saturday, May 23, and Sunday, May 24, have revealed the first wave of acts for the second stage.

The bands taking part include Our Fold, The Arcadia Verses, Sky Valley Mistress, The Jade Assembly, Made In Wonderland, The Newds, Sinnergod, Grand Arcadia and Bone Idols.

Organiser Jools Taylor, who has held a similar event in Prestwich for the past three years, said: "There are more acts yet to be confirmed for what is truly going to be a fantastic festival and it’s amazing what quality talent is on Bolton’s doorstep."

As well as the local bands, some of the country's top rock, indie and metal tribute acts will perform at the festival and organisers are reminding people to reserve their tickets, which are free but subject to a £2.90 booking fee, as they will not be available on the day.

Up to 10,000 music lovers are expected to descend on Queens Park for the festival, which will feature professional tribute bands to acts including Royal Blood, The Doors, Guns N’ Roses, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Manic Street Preachers, AC/DC, Blur, Foo Fighters, Metallica and Led Zeppelin.

There will be music stages, beer tents, food stalls, children's activities and a VIP area, for which a handful of tickets remain — costing £11 with booking fee.

The festival will start at noon and finish at 10pm on both days.

The Blind Tiger, Nelson Square, will be hosting the official Boltfest after show parties on each night with Johnny Doom from Kerrang Radio.

Visit boltfest.com for more information or tickets.