Stoke, origin of those two great bastions of modern rock and pop, Slash and Robbie Williams, has long enjoyed a love-hate relationship with the rest of the midlands. This June, the Staffordshire town is reaching out with an impressive line-up of chart stars that represents some of the best value for money anywhere on the festival circuit in this extraordinary British summer.

Now in its third year, Stoke 2012 Live is continuing to grow in stature while keeping its feet firmly on the ground. This year, the bill is stronger than ever with Alexandra Burke and Rizzle Kicks catching the eye for the Saturday, supported by a strong undercard which includes chart-topper Wretch 32, X Factor stars The Mend and Little Mix, as well as a host of top pop acts such as Ebony Day, Basshunter and Skepta.

The line-up for the second day is no less impressive, boasting The Saturdays, Tinie Tempah collaborator Labrinth, folk-pop singer-songwriter Juan Zelada, Blackpool's Karima Francis and more, including Honey Ryder and teen-pop Britain's Got Talent alumni Be Minor. YouTube sensation Ebony Day is earning her corn with appearances on both days.

Stoke 2012 Live takes place at Hanley Park, Stoke, on Saturday 16th and Sunday 17th June 2012. We have tickets available now, priced just £10 (a tenner!).