AFTER building up their audience, and scouring the area for the perfect venue, the organisers of this year's Sound of Colchester music festival have got their hands on the big prize.

A slot in the town's Castle Park.

Celebrating and showcasing the talent in and around the town, Sound of Colchester started out on Cymbeline Meadows just on the outskirts of the town in 2015 before moving a little closer to the centre with a small and intimate site on Abbey Field.

Now after two successful events they've been given the go-ahead for a one day event in Castle Park on Sunday, May 28.

James McKeown says: “The whole idea behind the event was to support the local community, not just local bands but also local businesses and producers, and we've been delighted how the last two events have gone.

"It's been our dream to do an event in Castle Park and while we were after two days, just the one is fine by us."

Rob Harding adds: “The idea is to make this festival an annual event but to grow it slowly over a number of years. We think it has the potential to be something really great for the town but we realise these things have to be done right.”

And they've made a good start this year with a line-up that is buzzing with big local established names, and those just making their mark on the scene.

With a headliner yet to be announced, bands taking part include, among others, The Landed, Electric Ocean, Pet Needs and Surge with solo acts playing such as Pier James, Daisy Day, Matt Buckle and Vicky Eldon.

Running from 10am to 10pm, as well as the music there will be a special Kids Zone with bouncy fun, obstacle courses, small rides and games, not to forget a wide array of food choices, served up by some of the area's most exciting companies.

Tickets are priced in advance £10 for adults, £5 for children, available on-line at www.colchester-events.co.uk/event/the-sound-of-colchester or on the gates on the day, priced £15 for adults.