Music fans will be spoilt for choice this weekend as the mighty Balstock takes centre stage.

The Comet: Connor Wells performing at Balstock 2014.Connor Wells performing at Balstock 2014. (Image: Archant)

Now in its 10th year, Hertfordshire’s biggest free music festival will see more than 260 bands playing across 13 stages, with sounds kicking off at 7pm on Friday and drawing to a close at 10pm on Sunday.

In between there will be something for everyone at the volunteer-run festival, with genres ranging from rock to country, punk to soul and hip hop to metal.

Bands are coming from as far and wide as Holland and Spain, and, as well as plenty of furious fretwork, there will be a soothing Folkstock stage at The White Lion and even karaoke at Mick’s Barbers for those that can cut it.

Away from the music, those looking for a laugh can visit the various comedy stages, while there will be plenty of family activities running on the High Street on Saturday.

Balstock organiser G La Roche, who is the closing act at The White Hart on Friday night, said: “The last decade has seen the festival grow from a few acts in The Engine pub garden to a town-wide, three-day extravaganza.

“Over this time money has been raised through the good work of bands giving their time for fundraisers, volunteers shaking buckets, crazy haircuts and even a sponsored tattoo.

“We are hoping to raise even more this year so please come and support the acts, and give what you can.

“My beloved Balstock reps and I are poised for a weekend of musical madness. Viva la Balstock!”

There will also be a merchandise stall in the High Street where you can pick up CDs of recent acts – including a ‘from the archives’ edition to celebrate the last decade of Balstock – T-shirts and wristbands to mark a memorable weekend.

For more information visit www.balstock.com.