A FREE festival aimed at families, music lovers and petrol heads will take place over the August Bank Holiday weekend at Moss Farm Leisure Centre.

The festival kicks off with an open-mic night on Thursday, August 24, which is free to attend, and concludes on Monday, August 28, with a car boot sale, a car and aircraft show, the Cheshire strongman competition, and a fairground and climbing wall for children.

Other events across the weekend include an antiques fair and a motorbike and scooter show, with various bands such as Bohemian Kings and Slug playing across the weekend. Several stalls and charities will also be present.

Dave Johnson, from Northwich Rugby Club, which has organised the event annually since 1984, said: "It should be a lot better this year, weather permitting. Fingers crossed. There will be plenty of things for people to do."

Dave hopes that the five-day festival can help to 'put Northwich on the map' while promoting 'sport in general and well-being'.

Dave added: "Whether you are a weekend sports fan, music fan, petrol head or just a family looking for a great free Bank Holiday day out then come down to Moss Farm and join us for some music, fun and adventure.

"This invitation is extended to all the new families moving into our area."

Steve Woods, from Cheshire Centre for Independent Living, which is running a Cheshire Independent Living Awareness Day (CILAD) on Friday, August 25, said: “It’s the sixth time we’ve done the festival – I guess you could call it a partnership.

“The focus is on all support mechanisms and products available, with the main focus on disabled people. We mainly provide information on the day, but it is also a family fun day with the focus on activities for children.”

Around 700 people attended the CILAD event last year, with a similar attendance anticipated this year. There will be 60 to 70 exhibitors and a choir to provide entertainment. For more information on CILAD, Steve can be contacted on 01606 331853.

Most of the events across the weekend are free to access, but selected activities will have a small cost. Any money raised will either go to local charities or to Northwich Rugby Club to be put towards their activities.

More details on events, prices and timings can be found at northwichfestival.co.uk - anyone wishing to help or get their business involved can also use the site to contact to contact Moss Farm Leisure Centre, or Dave Johnson.