Responding to concerns that charging for this year's Old Town Live event in Stevenage will adversely affect its popularity, the organisers are keen to clarify that a significant element of the one-day music festival will remain free to attend.

Last year's free inaugural event in October was supported by grant funding from the government's Welcome Back Fund, aimed at supporting the safe return to high streets after the hiatus due to the pandemic. More than 40 acts performed, with eight stages in bars, pubs and on-street marquees.

This year's festival - with more than 60 bands from a variety of genres - is on Saturday, August 6, with nine venues so far confirmed, including the Mulberry Tree, Marquis of Lorne, Cinnabar, Old Town Bar, Red Lion and Lounge72.

There will also be two main stages at either end of the High Street, a busking spot, kids' zone, food vendors and a 'hospitality village'.

With no government grant funding this year, there will be a charge for venue entry. The decision has divided opinion.

One resident wrote in a Facebook post: "Hitchin had Rhythms of the World, which started off free in the town centre then, because it was free and successful, they started charging an entrance fee and it was moved to The Priory.

"After that, it died. This is the same as the Old Town festival - it was free and now they want to start charging. I give it a year."

More than 80 people commented - some in agreement and others suggesting it's not realistic to expect it to remain a free festival.

The organisers said: "Old Town Live is free to attend on the High Street. Registration will be required to obtain a free wristband to enter the staged areas on the High Street. This is simply to be able to have exact numbers on attendance in certain areas, making it safer.

"If anyone wants to enter one of our venues, they will require a venue access wristband that starts at £7, for access to all venues. This again, helps us monitor numbers, movement of people and, more importantly, fund the event.

"For that £7, attendees will also get a festival cup worth £5. So, essentially, it's over 60 bands, stages, entertainment and more for £2."

For more information, and wristbands, visit oldtownlive.co.uk.