A THREE-DAY musical festival at Upton Country Park is being hailed as the south-coast music event of the year.

Popular Poole live music venue Mr Kyps and Big Bear Events have teamed up to bring you the first Upbeat Festival over the August Bank Holiday.

Headliners for the outdoor extravaganza have already been confirmed, including triple platinum album seller Imelda May, Brit-rockers Toploader, Sandi Thom, Deborah Bonham and Tom Montague.

Seven tribute acts will perform on the first day alone, including T-Rextasy, Kastoff Kinks and No Jacket Required – a Phil Collins show.

The fun lasts until well into Monday evening, with local cover acts Souled Out and Rat Race bringing old school soul and Jamaican ska to the park.

A festival spokesman said: “We’ll finish off with homages to two of the most influential bands ever in the guise of Sergeant Pepper’s Only Dartboard Band and Rollin’ Stoned.

“Mr Kyp’s Upbeat Festival promises to be a superb weekend of old and new for everyone to enjoy.”

For full details and tickets to the Daily Echo-backed event, visit upbeatfestival.com and bic.co.uk Prices range from £15 for Saturday, August 27, to £35 for the weekend. Entry is free for children accompanied by a ticket holder.

Camping options are available.

Children’s TV favourite Sportacus visits the park with an all-action show on Monday, August 29, for the Family Fun Day.

There will also be a fun run organised by FitKid and the Lazy Town Sports Club.

The fun day will be free to the general public.

The Friends of Upton Country Park will still be holding their annual Summer Craft Show in Upton House on Sunday, August 28, and Monday, August 29, from 10am-4.30pm.