Punk fans from overseas said they really feel welcome in Morecambe

Hazel O'Connor and The Stiff Little Fingers are among the 155-act line-up playing at the resort.

The festival first took place in Blackpool in 1996 before moving to Morecambe the following year.

Organiser Jennie Russell-Smith said: "We're trying to make it the Glastonbury of punk rock"

It has just changed its name to "Wasted" from "Holidays in the Sun" (after the eponymous song by the Sex Pistols) as part of a bid to make it more family-friendly.

We've created a unique atmosphere Jennie Russell-Smith

Ms Russell-Smith denied that punk, notorious for bad language, was unsuitable for youngsters.

"I think that with a lot of kids these days, things like swearing are not really a major issue and I think it's something people have grown up over.

"We're not talking tiny children anyway - most of the ones who come are aged about 11 and 12.

"Song-writing has moved on, punk bands have a lot more to say nowadays."

The event is also a big money-spinner for the local tourist economy in Morecambe.

Ms Russell-Smith said: "We just love it and people here make us feel really welcome.

"Visitors come here from all over world and tell us 'People actually enjoy having us here'. We've created a unique atmosphere."

Attractions include the all-new acoustic cabaret (featuring punk bingo with Max Splodge and an acoustic guitar performance by Hazel O'Connor) and a ska and street punk theme on Saturday with The Beat and Roddie Radiation from The Specials.