Beat the winter blues away this week as the much-loved Broadstairs Blues Bash returns.

Things will be kicking off tonight from 8.45pm at the Wrotham Arms Blues & Roots Club, with music from Earl Jackson and the Stompin' Dave.

Vocalist and guitarist Earl Jackson is a familiar face on the Blues circuit, appearing several times on radio and TV - including the Jonathan Ross Show.

In 2017, he was awarded best Blues singer by The Jools Holland Boisdale music awards.

Meanwhile, Dorset-based Stompin' Dave is best known for his 'madcap flatfoot' dancing and award-winning banjo playing.

But that's just the start of the fun, as dozens of bands and singers are set to take to the stage until Sunday, February 24.

Last year, a mixture of 61 local, national, and internationals acts performed at 14 venues in the seaside town, attracting several thousand people.

Now in its 11th year, the annual music festival features a lengthy line-up across several venues including pubs and bars.

And all gigs are free of charge, except Saturday night at the Pavilion.

On Thursday, Luna Blues Band will play at Bradstow Mill from 8.30pm.

But on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, a whole host of acts will be on hand to entertain, including Katie Bradley, Robin Bibi Band, Blues Bandits, Jives, Dr Blue and Lee Bates.

There are 20 venues taking part: Balmoral; Bradstow Mill; Chapel; Charles Dickens; Cramptons; Dolphins; Reef, Harpers; Little Albion; Loungers; Mind the Gap; Neptune’s Hall; the Pavilion; Prince Albert; Samworth & Mee; Tartar Frigate; The George; Thirty-nine Steps; Wrotham Arms; and The Yarrow.

Promoters say: “All the pub and wine bar gigs over the whole weekend are free entry and we aim to try and keep it that way, so here’s how you can help - come along, buy a programme, a badge, mug and a T-shirt and spread the word.

“The Broadstairs Blues Bash attracts high-quality performers, so if you’re a fan of the old Blues, new Blues, great Blues, this festival is definitely one not to miss.”

For more information, and to book tickets, go to www.broadstairsbluesbash.com.