Plans to bring a new music festival to Fakenham are making good progress - with an unusual musical night to promote the event taking place next week.

Since the summer festival was announced a few weeks ago a lot of interest has been shown.

It is due to be held in Fakenham Market Place and in bars around the town on August 19.

To raise awareness of the festival, a Blues Jam will be held at Gallery Bistro, Fakenham next week.

It is believed this will be the first time Fakenham has hosted a Blue Jam - an event for musicians who want to join in and people wanting to watch some free live music.

Fakenham musician Andy Cooper said: 'The Blues Jam, organised and run by the Norfolk Blues Society gives people the chance to perform live in front of an audience.

'All are welcome. If you play any instrument or sing and want to play the blues then the jam is for you.

'Our regular blues jams attract all levels, from the novice to the seasoned professional.'

Richard Crook, who is organising the August festival, said: 'This is something new for Fakenham. I'm looking forward to finding out what it's all about and if it's popular we'll do it again'

Blues Jams always takes the same format. Anyone wanting to perform puts their name and instrument they play on a list.

The first half hour kicks-off with a performance by The Shunters Blues Band with a guest host front-man. In Fakenham, this will be well-known and local guitarist and singer Tony Edwards.

Then the open jam starts. The jam organiser will call names from the list and put together a band that will jam together.

That band plays two or three numbers before the next group is called up. Sessions are blues based.

Drums, keyboards and amps and PA are all provided. All you need to do is turn up with your instrument, put your name down on the list, play some blues and have fun.

The jam is from 8.30pm on Wednesday, June 7 at the Gallery Bistro, Market Place, Fakenham.

Meanwhile, Mr Crook is looking for more musicians and venues interested in being involved in the festival as well as volunteers and sponsors.

Call Mr Crook on 07887 803091 or e mail f-a-b@dircon.co.uk.