The inaugural Calnefest takes place this weekend, with organisers keen to show the youth of the town a good time.

The festival, the first of its kind in Calne, features sets by a host of local bands, including the Porn Issue and the Street Orphans – made up of former John Bentley School students.

Calnefest is the brainchild of new Calne Mayor Glenis Ansell and her step-daughter Clare McCoombe, a graphic designer.

They wanted to create a music event which could raise money for the mayor’s charities, MS Research and the Calne branch of the Royal British Legion.

It is hoped the event will give youngsters in the town something to do and a better press.

Mrs McCoombe said: “Activities in Calne are mostly aimed at older people or younger children, for example, events like the duck race. But we wanted to put on an event for teenagers and young adults because I think they get left behind sometimes.

“They are also the age group that people often think are bad news, we are going to prove that is not at all true.

Twelve bands are due to play, with local covers band The What 4s headlining. The bands are all playing free of charge, so all profits will go to charity. There will also be summer fair stalls and merchandise on sale.

Sam Prentice, from The What 4s, said: “We jumped at the chance to play in front of our home town audience at Calnefest.

“The festival is a great idea and it could help build a music scene in Calne. There is some dubstep and grime music starting to come through, so this can only help that.”

The festival is on Saturday between noon and 8pm at Bentley Fields. Tickets are on sale at outlets around the town and from www.wegottickets.com/event/ 126139 until tomorrow.