VISITORS to the Old Town Festival this summer will be greeted by a parade of pop idols and a giant medieval banquet.

Archery competitions, a family concert in the Old Town bowl and street entertainers should bring in more than 30,000 visitors between Saturday June 23 and Sunday July 1.

The event has been going for more than 15 years, and with the backing of Old Town businesses it promises to be the biggest so far.

Organiser Brian Mattock said: "We have a full programme with the favourites people always come back to and some new additions.

"One of the highlights is the banquet, which is a seven-course feast with a hog roast thrown in for £16."

Many of the events will take place in the Old Town gardens and Lawn, and most will be free.

Mr Mattock said: "We have always tried to make the shows as accessible as possible, because it's a great event for the community.

"The first Saturday afternoon will be dedicated to the schools of Old Town, there will be a funfair and we expect up to 1,200 people."

Trade in Old Town should also receive a boost from the summer festival.

Mr Mattock said: "Apart from our first aim, which is to provide an event that everyone can enjoy, we also aim to focus on the thriving businesses in the area.

"We already have information about the festival in the tourist centre, but we will open an office in Old Town to really publicise the shows."

Patsy Moloney will be co-ordinating four events from the programme.

He said: "There will be a pre-festival pop idol event at Commonweal School on Saturday June 16 at 7pm.

"Boys and girls up to the age of 19 will compete for a trophy and cash prize, and the winners will appear in the Bowl on July 1.

"But the most important event is the parade we will stage through the street on June 30. "All amateur and professional groups are invited to take part."

Patsy is also putting together a dog show in Lawn woods, with prizes for the canine with the tail that wags the most.

He said: "Our judges will also select which pet they would most like to take to the pub, and best fancy dress."

For general festival information contact Brian Mattock on 01793 522540.

For more information about Patsy's events, contact him on 01793 642368.