There's no room at the inn in Maryport as the town gears up for its 18th annual blues festival next weekend.

The Waverley Hotel, Ellenbank Hotel, Golden Lion Hotel, Sailor’s Return and Shore Walk bed and breakfasts have all sold out a combined 52 rooms for the three-day festival from Friday, July 29 to Sunday, July 31.

Debra Park, one of the organisers, said: “We never know how many to expect but Elkie Brooks has definitely sold more tickets than normal.

“People still love the blues, they still want it and that’s all they want to talk about when they bump into us.

“We will start setting up the marquee on Sunday and then it’s just about tweaking things, making sure everything’s right and all the bands have their transport and accommodation sorted.

“We don’t have time to get excited but you still get the buzz.”

Revellers can take their pick from 50 bands across 12 venues over the weekend, with the main stage marquee supported by the popular outdoor stage and pub trail.

Award-winning singer Elkie Brooks, pictured, will be the Saturday night headliner on the main stage after American band Royal Southern Brotherhood pulled out.

Firm favourite the Ian Siegal Band is back on Friday night and BBC Radio 2 presenter and former Manfred Mann singer Paul Jones will rock Sunday night as part of The Blues Band.

The navy club, the Sailor’s Return, the Golden Lion, Netherhall Old Boys, the Butchers Arms, the Phoenix Tap, the labour club, Her Citi, the Thomas Henry and the campsite at Netherhall Rugby Union Club are all on this year’s trail.

Debra added: “I think it’s one of our best line-ups because they’re names people know and most of them have been before so people know they are getting a good show.

“We have got a good mix of bands and venues and we do ask the publicans what they think and want, we talk to them whenever possible.”

It was hoped a caravan site at Maryport’s marina could be up and running in time for the blues festival but Maryport Harbour and Marina Ltd confirmed this week that would not be the case.