THE first ever Hale Barns Carnival is now only weeks away - and organisers have signed up a chart-topping act as part of the festivities.

Disco stars Odyssey will perform a a full length concert at the event on July 16.

The band, originally from New York, will be celebrating the 40th anniversary of the release of their hit 'Native New Yorker'.

Their other hits, mostly in the early 1980s, include the number one Use it Up and Wear it Out.

Other top 10 hits were Going Back to My Roots, Inside Out and if you're Looking for a Way Out.

Odyssey will be supported by who will be supported by Groovy Revolution.

The carnival takes place on July 15 and 16 at St Ambrose College playing fields an and event organiser Max Eden said they have a full programme over the weekend.

He said: "It's absolutely jam packed with exciting attractions, showcases and performers and promises to be the biggest event that the village has ever seen.

"This event is all about bringing the whole community together while also enjoying a fantastic weekend of entertainment.

"With Odyssey, I really wanted to get an artist or group that are fun and exciting, a concert is about letting off steam, kicking back and having a good time and Odyssey just ticked every box, they put so much into their live shows and you find yourself up dancing all the way through, this concert in Hale Barns being extra special as it's the 40th anniversary celebration of their iconic hit 'Native New Yorker' - I just can't wait."

Saturday Night sees the site turned into an open air Royal Albert Hall, for a Night of the Proms. Acts announced include the soprano, Scarlett Quigley, who will be performing on the main stage along with the Manchester Rock Choir.

Tickets for the concerts can be bought from halebarnscarnival.co.uk or in person at Bull Head pub in Hale Barns, at Now on Ashley Road in Hale, or at Holy Angels Parish Office in Hale Barns.

Alongside the concerts, the carnival's attractions include the Hale Makers Market offering "the very best of food, drink, art and craft stalls," says Max.

The day events also include a funfair and dance showcases from talented dance groups.

The Robinsons Shire Horses will be attending the event, while 'petrol heads' will enjoy an array of sports and classic cars on display with several car clubs attending with fantastic rare cars including the back to the future car, a DeLorean.

A number of charities will man traditional fete stalls including a coconut shy.

Live music and entertainment will be laid on throughout the free event from 12-4pm daily including Brass Bands, contemporary singers, cheerleaders and a fringe showcase of local talent.