A screening of 50s film The Girl Can't Help It will launch a new festival taking place in Sandwich.

The 1956 American musical comedy staring Jayne Mansfield will play tonight at the Empire Cinama in Delf Street.

A jive demonstration from the team at Terry Tiger Jive School, based in Broadstairs, will be performed during the interval.

The screening will raise money for a new music festival being held in town this August.

The three-day Kent 50s Festival will feature 60 hours of rock n roll music, with performances from 12 bands spread over two venues.

As well as live music, the debut event will include a classic car show, dance demonstrations, lessons and competitions, a vintage market and a signed guitar raffle.

It will also host a world first exhibition of photos and items from American rocker Eddie Cochran's Lost Locker archive.

The festival will be held between August 5-7, with day tickets costing £35 or three day passes costing £60.

It has been organised by Killertone Records, which is run by Simon Green, from Deal, and Sonny West, from Broadstairs, in conjunction with Sandwich Community Events Association.

Tickets for tonight's screening cost £10 and are available from The Sandwich Shop or the cinema.

Doors open at 7pm, for 7.30pm start, with canapes on offer and drinks from the bar.