BURY band Dear CAROLINE kicked off the opening night of Ramsbottom's Head for the Hills Festival with a rip-roaring 35-minute set.

Armed with a setlist of riff-heavy anthems, the four-piece took to the Smaller Rooms stage for their 6.05pm set to a chorus of cheers.

"We're Dear CAROLINE by the way, in case that wasn't obvious," declared frontman Joe Prior, motioning towards a white banner draped over the front of the stage, which had the band's name emblazoned across its front.

Prior, the owner of a quiff which would make a young Morrissey envious, was joined by his brother Alfie on guitar and vocals, as well as Jacob Saunders (bass guitar) and Nathaniel Jepegnanam (drums).

The adolescent alt-rockers unleashed a set oozing energy and high-tempo tracks, which was at times reminiscent of Chicago garage rockers The Orwells.

The band drew the set to a close with their most recent single 'Caroline'. The catchy pop rock track starts off more mellow than the rest of their songs, before the fiery riffs that characterise the set were unleashed one final time.

You get the feeling that this could be the song to take them places.

In what can surely be classed as their home festival, Dear CAROLINE's performance showed just why they are tipped as one of the most promising young indie bands on the Greater Manchester music scene.

Also performing on Friday were Bolton-based singer James Holt, Larkins, and Maximo Park, who rounded off the evening with their headline set.

Saturday's highlights include Glass Caves, Dutch Uncles, and Beth Orton.

Tickets are available on the gate. More information can be found at www.headforthehills.org.uk.