G PERCUSSION began in 1996, a defiant response to the IRA bomb that had wreaked havoc in Manchester city centre. Since then this music festival has continued to thrive, showcasing some of the region's best talent and giving music lovers the chance to party all day in the open air.

This year G Percussion has even more significance as it has been timed to coincide with the end of the Commonwealth Games, which should secure a joyous atmosphere in the city.

The event takes place tomorrow in Castlefield from noon to midnight, and will be operating across five stages. The event is free and will be reflecting the diversity of Manchester music, with Manc Stalwarts 808 State, Factory signings A Certain Ratio and local outfit Alpinestars performing plus a whole heap of top DJs including Mr Scruff, Dave Haslam and James Holroyd.

Manchester's most popular clubnights will also be present, with DJs from Bugged Out! Electric Chair and Spellbound making an appearance. Die-hard clubbers can follow this up with a visit to one of the official after-show parties at Robodisco (Sankeys Soap) Tangled (The Pheonix) or Substance (North).

So if you haven't got the moolah for V2002 this is the next best thing and it is totally gratis! If the sun shines it will be a cracking day. And if the sun doesn't shine... well, it will still be brilliant! Just don't forget your brolly...