BRACKNELL'S best musical talent will be celebrated at the new Affinity Festival this weekend.

The South Hill Park event tomorrow (Saturday) is set to showcase upcoming artists from Bracknell, Berkshire and the surrounding areas, as well as special guest headliner and pop/rock giants In Colour.

Organiser Joe James said that after the revival of Big Day Out last year, it was obvious that what the public wanted to see was quality, local music.

He explained: "Berkshire has many fantastic bands who play week in, week out to audiences far smaller than they deserve and we hope - this year and as the festival grows in subsequent years - that we can provide a platform that showcases what they have to offer to a large audience.

"Additionally, and just as importantly, we want to put on a great show and give people a really good day out! We have over 10 years' experience in gigs and festivals and have a clear idea of what we want to put together for the public." The day will be packed with an eclectic mix of acts, spanning genres from ambient electronic and acoustic to epic rock, post rock, prog and punk rock.

There will be three stages throughout the afternoon and evening, including free live acoustic acts on the Birch Hill mansion's terrace and in the Atrium. All stages are indoors or undercover, so will go on whatever the weather.

Entry to all areas of the festival are �8 in advance and �10 on the door. On-the-door tickets are limited so arrive early or order them in advance via www.southhillpark.org.uk or 01344 484858.

For the full line-up, pick up a copy of the Bracknell News - out now, just 60p.