Colne's Great British Rhythm & Blues Festival shortlisted for prestigious UK Blues Award

Colne’s much-loved Great British Rhythm and Blues Festival has been shortlisted for a major national award, underlining its status as one of the UK’s leading blues events.

The festival has been named as one of the top five nominees in the ‘UK Blues Based Festival of the Year’ category at the UK Blues Federation’s UK Blues Awards.

The accolade is particularly special, as the Great British Rhythm & Blues Festival is the current holder of the trophy, having previously won in April.

Having also claimed the prestigious award in 2019, if successful this year, a third triumph would see the festival enter the UK Blues Hall of Fame.

The 2025 festival welcomed over 30,000 visitors to Colne for the 34th edition of the event.

Attendees enjoyed a weekend packed with incredible live music, headlined by Gerry McAvoy's Band of Friends, When Rivers Meet, and Beaux Gris Gris & The Apocalypse, alongside street food, entertainment, the Official Fringe and a vibrant festival atmosphere.

Voting for the 2026 UK Blues Awards is now open and runs until 1st March, with winners announced on 8th April. Fans can cast their votes here: https://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/UKBluesAwards2026Voting/

Simon Shackleton, festival coordinator, said: "We’re incredibly proud to be shortlisted in the top five again.

”It would be an absolute honour to win once more and secure a place in the UK Blues Hall of Fame. This recognition is a testament to the hard work of everyone involved and the amazing support we receive every year from those buying tickets and attending the event.”

Nathan Cutler, events and facilities officer at Colne Town Council, said: "The Great British Rhythm & Blues Festival is hugely important for Colne, both culturally and economically. It’s fantastic to see the festival recognised on a national stage and celebrated for the incredible experience it provides for visitors and locals alike."

Planning is already underway for the 35th anniversary of the festival in 2026, with exciting announcements including the return of The Muni Theatre as one of the main venues. Artists already confirmed include Friday night headliner Mike Sanchez & His Band and King Pleasure & The Biscuit Boys, who performed at the very first festival back in 1990.

Tickets for the 35th festival are available now at www.bluesfestival.co.uk/tickets

The Great British Rhythm & Blues Festival is organised by Colne Town Council and Colne Blues Society.