Staxtonbury, the brainchild of Alan Hunnybell, owner of Spital Farm off the A64 near Staxton, came up with the idea for the festival in response to the annual Glastonbury event which took place last week.

He teamed up with a local band manager to give Scarborough a taste of local music talent, family fun and festival atmosphere.

Bridlington-based band BIGME and Scarborough's Blue Alibi provided the headline entertainment last night.

Organisers say the festival will showcase some of the finest local bands and singers from the north east including Blue Alibi, Bigme, The Grand Urge and The Shamrockers,

The event, which runs until Sunday, is being compered by Miss Scarborough entrant, model and Gladiator finalist Hannah Creelman and local policeman Jez Pratt.

Mr Pratt said: "It was an excellent night and everyone seemed to enjoy themselves. This festival provides a great opportunity for local bands to play in front of audiences bigger than they normally would.

"We've got about 100 tents and caravans set up with families enjoying a festival atmosphere. I'm sure the rest of the weekend will be equally successful."

Pictures in Monday's Evening News.