TOP names from the pop world are appearing at the Mello Festival near Upton this weekend.

The festival, now in its fourth year, takes place at Severn End, Hanley Castle.

Described as "an eclectic, cool and creative festival for all the family", Mello takes place from Friday to Sunday, May 22 to 24.

Among the acts headlining this year's event are EMF, the Forest of Dean-based electro-rockers best known for their 1990 single Unbelievable.

Pioneering jazz collective the Brand New Heavies helped create the sound of acid jazz, fusing funk, soul and hip hop production to create their unique sound.

Hailing from South London, Stereo MCs are a hip-hop and electronic dance music group who made a name for themselves in 1992 with their hit single Connected.

The Wonder Stuff, from Stourbridge, who have been active for nearly 30 years, are also starring, as are The Craig Charles Funk and Soul Club, Don Letts, Mariachis, Tom Hingley from the Inspiral Carpets and Mike Joyce from the Smiths.

This year's festival will also see the debut of the brand-new Contempo DJ Stage, plus plenty of family-friendly fun activities, and a whole host of trade stalls, including food and drink outlets.