A festival of nostalgia is on the way to Workington.

Vintage in the Town will take place on September 9 next year, featuring at least one band from the swinging 60s, street entertainment and stalls.

It follows the success of the town’s three Paint the Town Red festivals, which attracted thousands of visitors.

Those behind it hope the event’s new incarnation as the town’s first ever retro festival will build on its previous success.

Organiser Helen Fowler said she hoped it would be as big as Morecambe’s annual Vintage by the Sea, which typically attracts around 50,000 visitors.

She said: “There is a real global appetite for vintage-themed events and retro items. The concept has become very high-profile and other areas have done this with great success.

“We want to put on a unique community event that embraces all ages and social groups while also giving a boost to the town centre economy, showcasing our retail outlets and attracting visitors who will come back in the future.”

Organisers say they have lined up a big name band from the 60s for the event but are keeping tight-lipped about the identity of the headline act.

The event’s main stage, outside Laura Ashley, will also have music from the 50s to the 90s courtesy of support acts and tribute bands.

Up to 40 stalls at Ladies Walk will sell vintage clothes, retro homeware, upcycled furniture and shabby chic bargains.

This festival will raise cash for the Workington branch of the RNLI, with street collections on the day.

It is expected to cost about £30,000.

Washington Square Shopping Centre is the main sponsor, with further support from Allerdale council, Workington Town Council, businesses and Workington Rotary Club.

Dave Fletcher, town centre development manager, said: “This is a great opportunity to showcase the town centre as the hub of retail in West Cumbria and we are delighted to be the main sponsors.”

Lakes College art and catering students will be involved in the festival, with heritage bus tours also planned.

John Head, of Workington Rotary Club, said: “There has been nothing like this in our memory.”