Chippenham's annual Eddie Cochran Festival will entertain and inspire residents as a new organiser takes it over 52 years after the rock n roll star’s death.

Lindsey Miller, a rock and roll enthusiast who has worked in events in the past, took the position after last year’s organisers George and Doreen Steele offered him the role.

The 27-year-old said: “Having been to the Eddie Cochran Festival in previous years I couldn’t help but notice the lack of local and young people, and so I want to bring new life to the event.

“I took this opportunity to see the festival continue, maintaining interest from nationwide fans but also introducing new people to the occasion.

“The commitment from all that come every year from across the country is astounding; however, I feel that Chippenham people need to be more involved in their local history.”

The five-strong line-up for this year is yet to be confirmed, but will include traditional 50’s rock n roll acts as well as some with a modern twist.

Mr Miller, musician and manager of the Old Road Tavern, said: “I think it’s important to stay true to the time, but rock n roll has evolved and I want to include that at this year’s festival.

“I’m really looking forward to seeing everybody enjoying the occasion. I can’t wait to see a full dancefloor with an eclectic mix of people of all ages and backgrounds.”

The Eddie Cochran Festival 2012 will take place at the Neeld Hall, with a capacity of 300, on Saturday April 7, differing from previous years when it has been held at the Olympiad.

Mr Miller, who lives on Old Road, Chippenham, said: “The Neeld Hall is a good size and has excellent facilities; it fits the genre of the festival perfectly and has well-balanced acoustics.

“The staff have all been very helpful so far, and I hope the change in location attracts some new local faces.”

The ticket price will include an optional dance lesson in the afternoon and entry to the evening’s entertainment, starting at 4pm.

The traditional walk-and-talk to Eddie Cochran’s memorial on Bath Road will also take place on Sunday, April 8.

The full line-up and ticket details will be announced at the end of this month.

American rocker Cochran was 21 when he died in April 1960 in a road accident in Chippenham during a tour.