SOME of the finest rock bands from Malvern and beyond will be performing on the common at Link Top on Saturday, June 21, in aid of Acorns Children's Hospice.

Midsummer Mappfest is the latest venture from fundraiser Andy Mapp, who has been supporting the hospice for several years.

Mr Mapp started out modestly with small parties in his Bank Street home, but the scale of the events escalated last year, when he held two festivals in the Re-Con music venue in the town centre.

Now he's hoping for fine weather at the weekend so that the event recaptures the vibe of free festivals held on the common during the 1980s, the memories of which inspired him.

The festival has two stages, with 16 bands playing from noon to 10pm. Headlining are Slack Granny and the line-up includes Ronin, Black Russian, Dogs of Santorini, Sam Eden and many more performers.

Mr Mapp said: "The festival is a true coming-together of the community with local and national businesses all participating to raise money for Acorns.

"Malvern Hill Conservators have given permission to hold it on Link Top common, the same venue for the old free festivals 30 years ago."

He has also secured the services of G4S, which recently opened up a children's home in the town. The company will be providing a security team to ensure a safe environment for, and has also donated £150 to the hospice.

"I'm very grateful to G4S for this kind gesture, to the Conservators for permission to use the common, and to all the performers and everyone else who is contributing to the festival."

There will also be bouncy castles, a barbecue, vegetarian food stalls, a fully licensed bar, children's rides, tombolas and raffles.

Mr Mapp said: "This is a true free festival with not one penny going out for expenses, thanks to the generosity of the people of Malvern. Entry is free, but I would urge festival-goers to give generously in support of the hospice."