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Action on a new cinema for Grimsby's Riverhead is on hold - but the music and lights for The Barge Fest 2019 are rocking on.

The countdown is on for the free, open air, rock festival which is the town's top showcase for local talent.

The extensive Riverhead area, next to The Barge pub, provides a safe, family-friendly location to enjoy non-stop live music.

The first of 10 live bands will strike up at noon on Saturday, August 3. The line up will play until 11pm and the Barge Fest will close at 2am.

(Image: Rick Byrne / Grimsbylive)

The first Barge Fest in 2017 was billed as 'the first and the last' rock concert due to plans to build a cinema and remove the floating Barge, in favour of a fountain.

But following a tidal wave of support for the unique bar, plans are now on hold.

Work had been due to start on the complex in October, but there has so far been no sign, with suggestions that a huge underground cable was possibly causing delays.

Staff and regulars at The Barge and music fans in Grimsby are determined to rock on despite the uncertainty over the multi-million pound town centre development.

Liverpool band, Pardon Us will bring their melodic punk songs to an eager audience. The band are on a UK tour in support of a new recording.

Music festival organiser, Jessica Dunlop said: "Our first one was meant to be our last. That was only because we were told we were going. But it has grown from there."

"North East Lincolnshire Council have been extremely helpful. We have grown the audience to around 300 in support of the Barge Fest. It is unique in the town centre and there is never any bother. There are a lot of families who enjoy the day. It will be a great community event again."

Thanks to bands' organiser James Elliott there is a full line up to suit all fans and he was pleased to declare "I have not picked any naff bands."

The line up includes The Dandy Lions from Nottingham, who are renowned in glam rock circles. Making their debut are Grimsby band, Caspers Ashes with their promising brand of Nineties alternative, post-Grunge rock.

Local band, Shouting Down Clouds will be welcomed back for the Fest, which also includes Johnny Utah, Phantom Lords, Dead Dads and August Tides.

Lincoln band, Sick Bookies are taking the high road to Grimsby and the ever-popular Yaz Band complete the line up.

Last year Barge Fest supporters raised hundreds of pounds for Giving Young People Opportunities (GYPO) providing activities for scooterists, BMX riders and skateboarders.

This year, in memory of a former customer at The Barge, organisers have dedicated fund raising to the Marie Curie terminal illness support charity.

There will be catering throughout the day, with outside food services and a covered beer garden.

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