A two-day festival featuring some of the country’s top tribute bands will be coming to Holywells Park this summer.

Nearly Festival will take place on June 18 and 19, and feature more than a dozen tribute acts performing songs by the likes of UB40, Madness, Olly Murs, Bob Marley, Sam Smith, Oasis, Paul Weller and The Killers, as well as several local bands.

Organiser Danny Banthorpe said: “We set up the brand in Norfolk doing big garden parties for 700 or 800 people, and booking tribute bands.

“Everyone likes bands where they know the songs so I thought why not set up a festival?

“I had contact with Holywells Park and it’s a beautiful site, a really good location in a community area.”

The community attraction is key for the organisers and aim to appeal to families, teenagers and parents.

To help with the family fun, a dedicated children’s area featuring dance sessions, storytelling and activities has been set up, and a DJ will be on hand to perform for teenagers.

While no camping will be available, the festival’s location in Holywells Park has been key.

“The response has been fantastic,” Mr Banthorpe added.

“We went on pre-sale on Facebook on Friday to offer early bird tickets and we have already sold 1,000 – it’s been pretty amazing.

“It’s just making it accessible, directing it at families, at people who cannot afford to go to festivals, or who have kids and want to do something on their doorstep.”

Local companies will also be brought on board, including sound by Andy Collins at Eclipse Light and Sound, and local food, drink and entertainment firms.

Mr Banthorpe added: “We love the site and the concept, and everyone we have spoken to has embraced the idea.

“We hope to do it in a few areas in East Anglia if it goes well.”

For more information and tickets, visit www.nearlyfestival.com or contact the Ipswich Regent box office on 01473 433100.