LIVE music will take centre stage when the Worcester Music Festival kicks off this weekend.

About 250 of the best up and coming bands from the local area and beyond will perform across more than 30 venues from Friday, September 18 to Sunday, September 20.

The celebration of live music — which is free to attend — offers a range of genres and styles of music, as well as workshops and classes.

Festival chairman, Ant Robbins, said almost 1,000 bands and artists had put themselves forward for a slot at the event.

“We’re all hugely excited about this year’s festival line-up, with an abundance of music of all genres on offer and even more outdoor entertainment, including some surprises which will be revealed over the weekend,” he said.

“We will also be raising money for Worcestershire Rape and Sexual Abuse Support Centre (WRSASC), over the weekend — an invaluable, local cause which hopes to set up a counselling service for children.”

On Friday, Worcester Arts Workshop will host performances by Vienna Ditto and on Saturday from midday, the venue will host The Players, Pre Sleep Monologue, Jane Thomason, Lara Conley and the Alchemist's Wardrobe, Li Laurent and Eeek, with more waiting in the wings for Sunday.

The Angel Centre, the Bridge Inn, Cap 'n' Gown, the Cardinal's Hat, the Chestnut, Drummonds, Elgar School of Music, the Farriers Arms, the Firefly, the Lamb and Flag, the Marr's Bar, Cellar Bar, the Paul Pry, the Pig and Drum and many more venues will host bands across the three days.

There will also be performances in the street outside Asda and the Guildhall.

For those who prefer to make music, the festival offers the chance to take part in ukulele, accordion, drumming, choirs, dance and singing workshops.

For a full line up, visit worcestermusicfestival.co.uk.