STICK ‘em up punk...the Fun Lovin’ Criminals are coming to Warrington in May – and the gig is free.

The Scooby Snacks singers have been announced as the headliner of the 11th Warrington Music Festival.

The celebration of music, organised by Steve Oates in partnership with Golden Square, will kick off at midday on Saturday, May 5.

It is believed to be the biggest free, ticketless music festival in the north west and will also feature performances from dozens of emerging bands from Warrington and beyond before the multi-million selling New Yorkers, Fun Lovin’ Criminals, take to the stage in the Old Fish Market.

Steve Oates, who founded the festival in 2007, said: “We think this approach will give the up-and-coming performers greater exposure and also bring a unique atmosphere and experience to the audience.

“It’s going to be a great experience for them and will make the day an even more special event.”

Ian Cox, centre director of Golden Square, added: “We’re absolutely thrilled to announce such huge stars will be playing at this year’s GS Warrington Music Festival.

“Fun Lovin’ Criminals are coming as a part of their UK and European tour this summer, and we’re incredibly lucky and excited that they agreed to be a part of our free celebration of music.”

Golden Square has been a long-time supporter of the festival, acting as venue for the past few years.

Ian said: “Last year’s event with Space and Cast was our best yet but we want to continually evolve the format to ensure we are giving the people of Warrington the best experience. With that in mind, this year we’re hosting the emerging talent and our headliners on the same day.”

Fun Lovin’ Criminals, led by frontman Huey Morgan, hail from New York City and found global fame in the late 1990s. Their eclectic musical style fuses hip hop, rock, blues and jazz together with R&B, punk and funk.

Further details on Warrington Music Festival – including the line-up of performers – will be announced in the coming weeks.