Keynsham will be a hive of cultural activity on 10 and 11 July as its annual music festival kicks off.

The free event has doubled in size to a full weekend, with theatre, stalls, workshops and a procession in the High Street for Streets Alive on the Saturday.

The Music Festival proper takes place in the Memorial Park on Sunday - about 10,000 people are expected to head for the park between 12.00 and 9.30pm.

Change of date

The festival has changed its date this year to fit in with this summer's busy sporting calendar.

"Traditionally, we have it on the first Sunday of the month," explained Suzy Mizrahi, festival coordinator.

"But that would have meant clashing with Euro 2004 finals and the Wimbledon finals so we thought it would be best to change it!"

Among the acts in the park on Sunday are Bristol-based singer/songwriter Jane Taylor who has a reputation for "striking melodies and hypnotic vocals.

Jane will be on the Bandstand Stage from 3.30-4.45pm.

International band and Baraka, reggae outfit Small Axe - who are both also performing at St Pauls Carnival - and Keynsham favorites Fat Man Swings can be seen on the Top Stage (see table below).

"There is a lot of variety this year and four stages to choose from."

The festival also provides an opportunity for local community groups and charities to raise their profiles and fundraise.

"Local charities, such as the Lions Club and the Round Table do very well at the festival, and all the money they raise goes back into the community."

What's on when...

12.00-6pm - Avariety of brass, folk and jazz bands on the Bandstand Stage

12.30-4.45pm - Singing and dancing from local talent on the Performance Stage

The fire sculpture is due to be lit up at dusk - approximately 9.15pm.