OTLEY Live has announced the full line up for its long-awaited music festival.

The weekender from July 30 to August 1will see 40 acts covering a mix of genres in daytime and evening gigs across eight venues - Otley Courthouse, The Black Horse, The Woolpack Music Studios, The Rookery, Otley Tap House, Otta’s Leah, Upstairs at the Labour Rooms and the Otley Social Club.

Highlights for Friday evening include Leeds legend, Mik Artistik (sold out), at The Black Horse, the Snake Davis Band at Otley Courthouse (sold out), and Otley singer/songwriter Andy Aitchison at The Rookery. Otta’s Leah is hosting an evening of acoustic/folk music, including Stramash, John Budworth and Elias Smith, while Otley psychedelic/indie combo, Death Valley Picnic will be playing the Labour Rooms.

Free events on Saturday afternoon include bands and musicians playing on the outdoor stage at Woolpack Music Studios and the Black Horse, choir performances at Otley Courthouse, and a number of designated ‘Busk Stops’ throughout the town centre. In the evening, The Rookery is hosting the Dunwells, with Bella Hardy playing at Otley Courthouse. Meanwhile, Woolpack Music Studios will be promoting three breakthrough indie acts at Otley Social Club on Weston Lane in the shape of Hannah Ashcroft, Josephine Sillars and Dilettante. All artists have been featured on BBC Introducing and this will be each of their first gigs in Otley.

The music continues on Sunday on the outdoor stages at Woolpack Music Studios and Otley Taps in the daytime, with Otta’s Leah hosting an acoustic folk and Americana evening gig featuring local performers Matthew Sturgess, Nick Wood, and Errant Thieves. The Woolpack Studios in collaboration with Prince Henry’s, will host four bands from the school at the Social Club. Music fans of all ages are welcome to come along.The festival has been organised by the Otley Music Alliance – an informal collaboration between venues and local music lovers, with the support of Otley Town Council.

A spokesperson for OMA said: “With the festival now just over two weeks away, the excitement in the town is brewing. Music fans have been unable to visit Otley venues thanks to the Covid crisis, but with many restrictions now being relaxed, there is a really positive feel about Otley Live. We think this festival is going to put a spring back in the town’s step and we are really excited about welcoming back music lovers to Otley - there really will be something for everyone.”

Visit https://www.visitotley.co.uk/otley-live/otley-live-weekend/ for further details.