Alsager will be alive with the sound of music this weekend - when this year's music festival comes to town.

Alsager Music Festival started in 2009, "as a way to provide young people with a summer event to fill the long holidays" and a chance for musicians to perform at a free music festival.

Now the annual event, which takes place at Milton Park on Saturday (July 15th) and at various pubs across the town on Sunday (July 16th), has grown and grown.

It's now attended by more than 5,000 people, watching hours of music across various stages and puts the town on the map with its 'mini Glastonbury'.

The event is organised by a group of local musicians, music enthusiasts, members of Alsager Round Table, Alsager Partnership and the scouts.

Organisers say: Beyond the music there is a bar serving real ales, merchandise stalls, food and drink to suit all tastes, craft stalls and community stalls.

"The main stage hosts a diverse range of music in front of a large crowd while the sunken garden covers acoustic acts in an intimate setting.

"Another stage encourages young musicians to play for the first time in front of an audience.

"If you prefer to while away the day in one of the local pubs, there's always plenty of choice of music on offer there too." 

The festival is run by volunteers and any money raised is given to local charitable causes or used for next year's event. 

Tickets are available here

Free programmes are available at several venues in the town, including The Lodge Inn, The Mere Inn, The Bar and the Lawton Arms.  

Organisers have issued a list of do's and don'ts:

BBQs are not allowed

No sides on gazebos

Please place litter in bins provided

No ball games or bikes

You may be ejected if you exhibit anti-social behaviour

Under 12s must be accompanied by an adult

Lost children will be taken to First Aid

Festival finishes at 9pm-please leave quietly taking everything home with you