THE giant shopping centre Bluewater is the setting for a four-day free festival of live music. Bluewater Unplugged kicks off this Friday. In total 18 acts are taking part, with a wide range of music from Caribbean steel drums to big band-era swing via indie rock.

Taking to the stage are rockers Falling From Grace and Quadmyre, as well Crimson Tears, who play a combination of opera and metal.

Also appearing is Dartford crooner Shane Hampsheir, singing Rat Pack lounge classics as well as favourite hits from Elvis and the Beatles to McFly.

The 50-acre complex, built in a disused chalk quarry, is visited by more than 27 million people a year.

Bluewater Unplugged, August 18 to 21, Greenhithe, Kent. For details, visit bluewater.co.uk or call 0870 777 0252.