THE first line-up for this year's Readipop Festival has been announced, and it is set to be bigger and better than ever.

Returning to the banks of the River Thames in Caversham for the third time, Readipop Festival will take place over the weekend of July 13 to 15, featuring Goldie Lookin Chain, Stereo MCs and Manchester dance pioneers 808 State.

The festival aims to bring an exciting weekend of music to Reading in a family-friendly and affordable environment.

Disco stars Odyssey will bring their seven-piece band to Readipop on the Friday night, fresh from supporting Chic and Sister Sledge on tour. With six Top 10 hits under their belts, including Use It Up, Wear It Out, Going Back To My Roots and Native New Yorker, Odyssey will make sure the festival kicks off in true party style.

Headlining the main stage on Saturday, acid house pioneers 808 State will bring their full band experience to the festival, while reggae legend Dawn Penn brings the proceedings to a close on the Sunday night.

Newport's finest comedy rappers Goldie Lookin Chain will take to the stage in the lively Purple Turtle Tent, while Fun Lovin' Criminals frontman and BBC 6Music DJ Huey Morgan will present his NYC Block Party, featuring funk, hip hop, soul and disco alongside live sets.

Readipop Festival director Gavin Lombos said: "Team Readipop is really excited about this year's line-up so far. It feels like a real step up from last year and there plenty more great acts still to come! With Blue Collar Street Food and Purple Turtle bars involvement, we're ensuring there's plenty of tasty food and drink to enjoy alongside brilliant live performances and workshops. Roll on July."

Advance weekend tickets are £30, children under 12 go free when accompanied by an adult. For details of the full line-up, visit www.readipop.co.uk/readipopfestival.