Soundstock Festival, a two-day music and comedy event, will welcome thousands through its gates this weekend for its inaugural appearance on the festival calendar.

Music acts confirmed, include former X Factor contestant Lydia Lucy, as well as Toyah Willcox, Ultimate Eagles, the Johnny Cash Roadshow and the Simon and Garfunkel Story.

Comedians include Patrick Monahan, who will compere over the weekend, as well as Katherine Ryan and Chris Turner.

The festival, which will be at Little Boyton Hall, Roxwell Road, Chelmsford, and is being organised by Ingenious Rock, is backing Essex Air Ambulance, Chelmsford Community Radio and Stanley’s Heroes.

Organiser Sharon Alford said: “Soundstock is aimed directly at families, in order to provide a great day out, with music and entertainment.”

For more information and tickets, go to www .soundstock festival.com