Preview: Alfresco

Alfresco's ambition to create a festival that appealed as much to music lovers as families and especially kids has by all accounts been an almighty success. Held at Blackpool's Cricket Ground, Alfresco 2013 saw electrifying performances from the likes of Grand Central records favourite Aim, as well as an infectious, vibrant headlining slot from the always impressive Mr Scruff, whilst children were well catered for with a staggering array of impressively organised activities. 

Alfresco returns for 2014 beefed up, with a heftier line up of music planned, as well as yet more wicked activities to delight your young 'uns. The day part of the festival will host everything from arts and crafts classes to jewellery making workshops, monster making activities to recycling art, interactive live art to children's theatre, keeping the nippers well and truly entertained. 

Add to that a five-a-side tournament, dancing lessons, story telling and a huge straw village open for complete exploration, and its easy to see why this year's Alfresco is an essential family destination in the North West.

But what about the music? Well once again, Alfresco have pulled it out the bag. Some of the acts announced include Factory Records punk funk pioneers A Certain Ratio, local label mates Section 25, Cowbell Radio's RnB vocalist Louise Spiteri, Government, Martin Brew, and a hugely anticipated return for Stockport's finest turntablist Mr Scruff.

British music legend Andrew Weatherall will be one of the main draws, heading up the marquee stage with one of his reliably brilliant 'Anything Goes' sets. Having what must be one of the finest record collections in the country, expect to be blown away by the master's set, which acts as a taster for his and Sean Johnston's ALFOS afterparty (get your super limited AAA ticket to the A Love From Outer Space afterparty here). 

Chris Duckenfield too returns for 2014 after a barnstorming set last year, with Manchester's Electric Chair mastermind Luke Unabomber and Magic Feet recording's Craig Betley joining in on the fun.

With loads more in store, Alfresco is once again looking like an unbeatable family festival, crammed with treats for all ages. Find out everything you need to know about Alfresco here.

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