City bands are being given the chance to showcase their sizzling sounds at a trio of music events this summer.

Sunderland Live presents three free live gigs to help promote the city's thriving musicians – and already a host of bands have signed up to become part of the action.

Hungover Stuntmen, Snagsby, The Bubble Project, Seven Heroes, Monty Casino and The Caffreys are just a few of the names that will be gracing the stage at Cliffe Park, Seaburn, over the summer.

And with plenty more on the bill, the events are set to help plant the city firmly on the music map.

The events form part of the campaign by Sunderland Music Forum (SMF) to promote and provide a launch-pad for the city's untapped talent.

Dave Harper, of SMF, said: "SMF has been working in partnership with Sunderland City Council to widen music participation opportunities for all in Sunderland.

"We are delighted that these events have been scheduled and the bands who will be involved are very excited and proud to be performing at a great venue and to hundreds of local people."

Sunderland Council recently commissioned research into the city's music scene. It revealed the need to support young, talented musicians with rehearsal, performance and production facilities.

Coun Mel Speding, portfolio holder for culture and leisure, said: "The first logical step following the research was to provide a platform for young bands to perform using one of our beautiful open spaces and adding three new concerts to Sunderland's already successful series of events and festivals which take place over the summer months.

"This would provide a platform for musicians as well as give the public a chance to support the local music scene and experience the amazing talent on offer in Sunderland."

The first event takes place on Sunday, July 20, with The Caffreys and Hungover Stuntmen topping the bill. Sunday, August 10 sees Seven Heroes and Monty Casino lead the stage.

And on Monday, August 25, the biggest of the three events will take over the park, with the focus being on raising awareness of climate change. St Robert of Newminster pupil, 15-year-old Jack White, climate change champion of the North East, will take to the stage with his band Troubleshooter.

As well as live music, there will be a range of other activities including a cinema marquee screening short films and animations produced in the region, a family activity marquee and green traders on site.

All the events take place at Cliffe Park from 1pm to 6pm.