DUST off your parachute pants and oversized blazers and book yourself in for a perm, because this July sees the return of Trafford's very own celebration of 80s music.

Now in its third year, 80s Fest will return to Ashton on Mersey RUFC on Saturday July 14 with tribute band, These Smiths, headlining.

Gillian Potter-Merrigan, event organiser, said: "We want to encourage people to come in groups and in families, but above all, to come and have a fantastic day out with some of the biggest stars of the 1980s - at least in tribute form.

"We've been incredibly lucky to be able to bring top award-winning tribute acts to our event on previous years and this year is no exception."

Tributes this year include 80s hit makers The Human League, The Police, The Jam, Blondie, These Smiths. Also returning for a third year will be the 'house band', 2Rude Ska from Wales.

Previous headliners at the family friendly festival have included tributes to U2 and David Bowie and the festival's high standards will be maintained this year with Manchester's very own These Smiths.

Gillian said: "We feel it's a very strong line up with something for everyone."

And it's not just the music that will put a nostalgic smile on your face. The 80s themed festival is equally famous for its outlandishly funny fancy dress.

The Messenger asked Gillian what her favourite costumes have been over the years.

Gillian said: "Well the first year we had a Pacman console chasing the Pacman and the jelly ghosts around the field.

"We also have the usual army of Adam Ants, Boy Georges, lots of Wham and Relax t-shirts.

"We even had the Royal Family last year complete with baby Prince William.

"We also had George, the pink Hippo from Rainbow (yes, in a costume).

"We've had cheerleaders, Bananaman, the staff of sitcom Hi-de-Hi!, the three ages of Madonna.

"Even a Rubik's Cube, a game of Twister and a telephone."

And what costumes are on her wish list this year?

She said: "This year I know we've got an Annie Lennox in attendance and I'd like to see some New Romantics."

As for the music, Gillian is confident this year's line-up is the strongest yet for 80s Fest.

So who is she looking forward to seeing the most?

She said: "The act I'm most looking forward to this year is a tough one. 2Rude are our house band now and I wouldn't dream of not having them on the line up.

"Our Human League tribute are a new band and I booked them just before their first gig.

"People really wanted a Human League tribute after last year and they've already supported Toyah and Bucks Fizz at Minehead.

"The Rozzers and The Jam'd come with brilliant reputations and UK Blondie was on TV recently on "Even Better Than the Real Thing".

"I think for the sheer fact that we are in Manchester though, it will have to be These Smiths.

"I've seen them play much smaller venues and I think they'll be amazing as headliners."

The feel-good festival will take place at the rugby club ground on Banky Lane, Ashton on Mersey on Saturday July 14. Gates will open at 12.30pm with curfew at 10pm.

There will also be a kiddies fair, fully licensed bar and food vendors within the festival arena.

Proceeds will go to the Greater Manchester Mayor's Homelessness Fund.

Tickets are available on line via Ticketmaster by searching for "80sfest 2018" or from local outlets Tasty Records in Altrincham, No 9 The Loft in Ashton village, Petite Modes in Sale, Tantilate in Stretford and Rose & Bumble in Urmston.

Advance tickets are priced at £25 for adults and £60 for family tickets, with further concessions for children and teens.

Discounts are also available for groups of 12+ via online. Prices on the gate on the day will be higher.

Further information is available at the website www.80sfestival.co.uk