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made a welcome return as Bolton’s first Right to Roam summer festival hit the right note over the weekend.

Dozens of big name musicians and local bands took to the stage for the two-day inaugural music and arts festival.

Headliners Eccentronic Research Council, featuring Maxine Peake, kicked off the festival, appearing at the Octagon Theatre, one of the brilliant venues across town to host the event.

Festival organiser Matt Carr said: “We are so thankful to everyone who came out to support us over the weekend for the inaugural Right to Roam, there has been a real ‘buzz’ across the town and it has been amazing to welcome live music back.

“A massive shout-out to all the performers, who were brilliant and audiences clearly agreed after seeing the initial responses on social media and word of mouth, it is a real testament to the amount of amazing talent we have on our doorstep.

“We are proud of all the hard work from everyone involved for putting together an incredible two-day festival for the town and we hope now to build on the success of the first year and come back even bigger and better next year.”

Fellow festival organiser Ivan Crompton added: “The first Right to Roam festival is complete and already our inbox is filled with thanks, registering to play in 2022 and messages of support about a truly fantastic two days of live music and creativity.

“The vibe was a mixture of release, excitement and appreciation with a selection of amazing acts both seasoned professionals and those making their first steps in the music industry. Many thanks to everyone involved and those who believed in this festival.”

The Octagon’s Chief Executive, Roddy Gauld, said: “There was a fantastic vibe at the Octagon, and all the venues, for the first ever Right to Roam festival. It was a really special moment to see so many artists perform for the first time in 16 months, knowing that freelancers have been out of work for so long.

"The talent young people playing too were just phenomenal. We’re delighted to have played our part in getting live music and arts going in Bolton again.”