Broadstairs Blues Bash is back with two of the biggest bands on the circuit – Nine Below Zero and the Blues Band.

This weekend's eighth annual festival unites performers and fans who have a passion for blues music in all its glory.

“In 2015 we put 45 local, national and international blues acts into 14 venues in the town and the festival attracted several thousand people,” said a spokesman for the three-day festival.

“Due to that success, 2016 promises to be even bigger and better with more venues and acts coming on board.

“Broadstairs has a vibrant exciting music scene and with small intimate wine-bars, friendly pubs and bars, larger pubs and one ticketed venue with two huge headline acts, it is the ideal town for a blues festival.

“The bash attracts high quality performers, so if you’re a fan of old blues, new blues, great blues, this festival is definitely one not to miss. Come along, buy a programme, a badge, mug and a T-shirt and spread the word.”

Nine Below Zero, supported by the Dove and Boweevil Band, play at the Pavilion in Harbour Street on Friday, February 19 and the Blues Band play there on Saturday, February 20.

Both are ticketed gigs – £15 for Nine Blow Zero and £23 for the Blues Band.

There is also the annual free jam session at the Pavilion on Sunday, February 21 from noon until 4pm. All the pub and wine bar gigs from Friday to Sunday are free entry.

The many and varied bands and solo performers taking part include Jimmy C and the Blues Dragons, Babajack, Northsyde, Guy Tortora and Ben Tyzak, Malaya Blue, DFL, Salvation Jayne, Dave Ferra, King Size Slim and the M25s.

To find out more, go to the official online page at www.broadstairsbluesbash.com