THERE is great excitement that ‘Rock and Roll’s Greatest Failure’ will perform at this year’s Alston Live.

Known across the country for his wicked sense of humour and a self-deprecating persona - hence the tag-line he has given himself – John Otway’s billing on the line-up at Alston Moor music festival has caught the eye of many.

The singer/ songwriter has become something of a cult figure for his unique performances since starting out as John Otway and Wild Willy Barrett in the late 1960s, and he has continued to entertain audiences with his anecdotes as much as his music!

He has performed at some of the world‘s biggest venues, including Glastonbury.

And now he is including the small Cumbrian town of Alston on July 25 on his UK tour after another stop off at Glastonbury and the prestigious Isle of Wight Festival in June.

His performance at Alston is expected to blow people away as he will appear with his ‘Big Band’, one of just six gigs on his 27-date tour to include the extra members.

Festival secretary Trevor Wright said: “John is as mad as a hatter, but what a show he puts on! He is a glorious character who sets himself up really well as this failed rock and roll star.

“To go with all his funny behaviour, he plays great music too and is a real crowd pleaser.”

Otway is set to headline the My Giddy Aunt Stage, this year under cover from the elements, and he will be joined by a great mix of local performers.

Last year’s headliners Pikey Beatz, hailing from the west of Tynedale, have again been signed up for the event, the energetic ska/ reggae band sure to get people dancing once again.

Mr Wright said: “I was standing in the rain on car parking duties for all the bands last year.

“Pikey Beatz were on at the end and to just watch everybody on the field dancing to their great music made it all worthwhile; it was definitely the highlight from last year for me.”

A name to look out for on the main stage is Jesse Reed, a wonderful guitarist, originally from Alston but now based in Holland.

A special trip back home will see him kick start the proceedings at midday.

Nationally-renowned singer/ songwriter Sean Taylor will make the trip up from London to perform – a man who regularly tours the country, again with Glastonbury featuring heavily, and with six albums to his name.

Popular Newcastle band The Baghdaddies will appear before their slot at Solfest in August, while heavy metal bands Jack Hammer and Die No More will play too.

Jazz band Lounge Lizards, who opened last year‘s festival, have been invited back for another main stage appearance.

Mr Wright said: “Alston Live is more diverse than other festivals and we try to make it a fun day for the whole family.

“It’s quite a privilege we are allowed to use Tyne Willow fields, so overnight camping is free and adds to the atmosphere.”

There is plenty of local music in The Tent from Nent too, including multi-talented Tom McMillian who also plays guitar in the Fiona Clayton band.

Other highlights on stage include folk singer Cara Knight and Trevor Reed, the 73-year-old father of Jesse who is well-known as the busker in Keswick.

Guitar and drum duo Twig & T. Pot, local funk band Mount Holly, which features festival chairman Tom Saunders, heavy rock band Ambigyoumoose, festival treasurer Fred Sheriff and instrumental band The Players, featuring Trevor Wright, all have slots too.

Making up the rest of the line-up is heavy metal band Bubble’ead, Loop Cycle, McBlade and Stan Philips.

Tickets for the festival are available at www.alstonmoorfestivals.com.