THE annual ‘Rock the Lough’ music festival returns in a new venue this year and promises to be bigger and better than ever!

A one-day celebration of the best local musical talent, ‘Rock the Lough’ 2017 will be taking place this Sunday (July 30) over three stages at the Crowes Nest in Enniskillen.

With the new location organisers are hoping for the biggest year yet - and are urging local people to come out and show their support for the cream of local musical talent!

The long-running festival is this year raising vital funds for two charities, Cystic Fibrosis North Trust and Ellie’s Retreat.

The festivities begin with the annual motorbike run around Fermanagh, which is due to leave from the rear of the Bush Bar in Enniskillen at around 3pm.

Entry to this costs £10 per bike. Participants are asked to meet from 2.45pm.

Meanwhile, the musicians will be playing on three stages at the Crowes Nest from around 5.30pm until late.

This year’s line-up of bands and solo artists features a wide range of musical genres, such as rock, pop and Country, so there is something for all ages.

Bands this year include The Undecided, Tonic All-Stars, The Divils, Kuilcagh, Imprint, Judas and Full Moon Fever.

A variety of solo artists are also on the bill, such as Alanna Maher, Niall Dooris, Aaron Wilson, Tommy Owens, Paddy Shannon, Samantha Breslin, Krum and many, many more great acts!

The festival, which has been running since 1999, is being organised by Ciaran Carson and Gareth Jones.

Ciaran said: “With the new location we are aiming for it to be the biggest year yet and we hoping the people can come out support us and let us all get as much money as possible for each charity involved.

“I would also like to thank the staff at the Crowes Nest for donating all their tips for the month of July to the charities which as it stands is a considerable amount, so I again praise them for their kindness.”

The ‘Rock the Lough’ 2017 festival is taking place this year at the Crowes Nest on Sunday, July 30, starting at 5.30pm until late.

Admission to the event will cost £5.

For more information on this year’s event, check out the ‘Rock the Lough’ Facebook page.