THE sounds of thunderous tackles and shouts from the sidelines that usually emanate from Blackbrook rugby fields will be replaced by hard rock this weekend.

That is the because the second annual Brookfest event is being staged by organisers seeking to make the musical blast a permanent fixture on the town's calendar.

The day will see a range of local talents including Stillia, Skinny Lizard, The Patriots, King Monday and others take to the stage as around 10 live acts from across the North West are scheduled to perform on the day.

The event is the brainchild of music-lover Jeff McGowen, a builder by trade, who describes it as "not your run of the mill festival".

"Considering it is only our second year I think we have done really well and word is getting about tremendously," he said.

"Without a doubt we've gone a lot bigger this year and there's other stuff going on other than the stage too and taken on board what was said from last year. We've got a fairground and traders selling stuff at the festival, facepainting and more.

"It is my plan to get it as an established event in the town calendar. It creates funds for the rugby club and local charities and do it for the local community."

Among the highlights on the day will be indie band Stillia, who have recently signed a management deal with B33 and rock group Bigfoot, who have signed a recent record deal, will make a return after being interrupted by storms last time they performed at Brookfest.

"To have two bands, one who has signed a massive management deal and one a massive record deal is brilliant," added Jeff.

"I'm looking forward to it and hopefully there'll be no storms!"

Brookfest takes place at Blackbrook rugby club, off Boardmans Lane starting at 12.30pm on Saturday (August 6). Tickets will be available on the gate.