COLEFORD is to be transformed on the late May Bank Holiday weekend into the largest open air musical stage yet seen in the Forest.
From the evening of Thursday, May 25 a host of local musical groups present a programme which climaxes in an all-day show on Bank Holiday Monday.
"Many people regret that the Coleford Carnival hasn't been held for some years," says Amanda Smith (38), chair of the Switched on Arts and Community Entertainment Group.
"The BBC's countrywide Music Live festival offered the opportunity to stage something in Coleford as a showcase for local talent and an attraction for visitors.
"Now most of the work on the town centre is finished, the Market Square provides a marvellous arena.
"On the Monday the four streets will be closed off to form zones with music and other entertainment from four continents."
Backing is being sought from the Lottery Fund, while the Forest of Dean District Council has contributed £2,500 up front. The town council's Sue Pritchard is a member of the organising committee.
Local businesses are supporting the event in various ways, from cash donations to the free supply of equipment. The Festival Office is at 2, The High Street, above the bakery.
Among the dozens of groups booked to appear are Garrison Damn, whose lead guitarist and vocalist is Amanda's husband Bob Smith (38).
"We met at a gig in Gloucester when we were 18 and have been involved in local groups ever since," says Amanda.
Thursday's inaugural event at the Bells Club is an evening of Forest humour and song featuring veterans Dick Brice, Joyce Latham and Keith Morgan. Saturday night at the Angel Hotel, Pillowell Brass Band is centrepiece of a Bavarian evening.
Sunday sees a French market in the square, an inter-youth club talent competition in the Community Centre in the afternoon, and an ecumenical Songs of Praise celebrating the beginning of the third Christian millennium at St John's Church at 6pm.
Monday is Coleford's "Perfect Day."