Local talent given opportunity to take centre stage at this year's Exeter Festival

Local bands and solo performers are being given the opportunity to take to the stage at this year’s all new Exeter Festival.

The call has gone out for local talent to appear at the Festival, which takes place during the first weekend of July.

Bands and solo performers are being asked to send in examples of their music to Festival organisers, who will then select the acts.

Those chosen will then perform in Northernhay Gardens on Saturday 6 July in the build up to multi-platinum, chart-topping band The Hoosiers headlining later the same evening. High energy 10-piece band Joey the Lips will also be playing.

Local presenter Chris Dinnis, who will be compering the Saturday music sessions in the Park, said: “This is such an incredible opportunity, not only to perform to a big audience but also to become Devon’s next superstar. You could be the next Chris Martin or Jess Stone!”

Musicians have until Friday 3 May to send in digital examples of their music tofestival@exeter.gov.uk

Exeter Festival runs from 5 to 7 July in venues across the city. As well as the music there will be big film screenings in Northernhay Gardens, with Bohemian Rhapsody and The Greatest Showman on the Friday and Mary Poppins Returns on the Sunday.

There are events down on the Quay and a sport and activity themed Community Family Fun Day on the Sunday.

To book tickets go to www.visitexeter.com/exeterfestival