Music lovers are invited to enjoy an afternoon and evening of free live music when Listen Up returns to Basingstoke town centre on Saturday 26 September.

The popular event will take place from 2pm across five venues in the Top of the Town, giving residents and visitors the chance to discover some of the area's most exciting musical talent.

Organised by Love Basingstoke and funded by Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council, the fifth Listen Up event will feature artists performing a wide range of genres including rock, acoustic, jazz, funk, soul and metal. Free performances will be taking place at the Royal Exchange, Laarsen's, the Wote Street Club, Tea Bar and the White Hart.

The event is free to attend and no tickets are required. Under 18s must be accompanied by an adult.

Listen Up is being delivered in partnership with local promoters RB Music and Jazz and Beyond Basingstoke and is part of the council’s drive to encourage more live music and cultural activity in the Top of the Town.

The council’s Cabinet Member for Sports, Leisure and Culture Councillor Kerry Morrow said: "Listen Up has become a fantastic showcase for the wealth of musical talent we have in and around Basingstoke and I am delighted to see it return for a fifth time.

"By bringing together local performers, venues and music promoters, the event creates a vibrant atmosphere and supports town centre businesses, while giving artists a valuable opportunity to reach new audiences.

"Whether you're a regular gig-goer or simply looking for something different to enjoy with friends and family, Listen Up offers a great chance to experience live music across a variety of venues and genres, all for free."

There is information about Listen Up, including venue details and line ups, on www.LoveBasingstoke.co.uk/events/listen-up.