THE August Bank Holiday has arrived, which can only mean one thing — it's time for the world famous Isle of Wight Scooter Rally.
Thousands of scooter riders and enthusiasts will descend on Ryde this weekend for fun in the sun, bringing their mirrored machines and mod style, to enjoy some fantastic live music at the town's Balcony Bars.
Expect the best of British rock, mod and punk, plus Motown, Northern Soul, Madchester and Britpop anthems from The Small Fakers, The Hi-Watts, Marquis Drive, The Signatures and The Fliks.
In a coup for organisers, they have, after years of trying, persuaded The Beat's Dave Wakeling to make a rare UK appearance.
He will be flying over from the US, where he has lived for more than 30 years, to play today (Saturday).
The Beat were one of the biggest 2 Tone bands, and has an Island connection — Dave wrote hits Mirror in the Bathroom and Save it for Later while visiting as a teenager, and original bassist Dave Steele came from Cowes.
Tickets are available from Ryde Superbowl, Bagel Wrap, Ryde, and Visual Impact, Newport, or online at www.visualimpact.co.uk/events