CLUBBERS have the chance to swap the dark, sweaty surroundings of the nightclub for the majestic surroundings of Loch Lomond as the annual Loch Lomond Boat Party returns this summer.

The Maid of the Loch is being transformed into a venue for the event on Saturday, July 13, which will see hundreds of revellers turn out to party their day away.

The event has been running for four years and is organised by promoters Live and Underground and record label Traffic Cone Records.

As well as providing an alternative summer night out for young people from Dumbarton and the Vale, the event is also being held to raise awareness and funds to restore the Maid of the Loch. Mark McG, of Traffic Cone Records, helped organise the event and is also a veteran performer at it. He told the Reporter: "Money is being raised to help restore the Maid of the Loch to its former glory but for now it`s docked in Balloch which makes it a fantastic and unique venue with a rare and beautiful backdrop. Speaking from personal experience, I would say it`s hard to beat the feeling of playing your music live to an up-for-it crowd on the bonnie, bonnie banks of Loch Lomond. All the acts involved are on top of their game so expect to be blown away by the musicians and DJs on display." There will be acts performing on two stages, an indoor one and an outdoor one, Mark's band Girobabies will be headlining the outdoor stage and close the day's proceedings. Mark continued: "I reckon it's going to be really emotional closing the outdoor stage this year.

"This time we have a prime slot and tight outfit dripping with talent. The full band will be there and they are all on incredible form, everyone's really up for it. It's extra special as I've got the chance to curate two stages till 9pm and pick the cream of Scottish music so expect everything from Rock to Hip Hop and everything in-between." Raymond Studden, from Live and Underground, says people have been anticipating the party since the last one in September last year. He added: "There has been a buzz about this event since the party last September. People can't get enough of our boat parties." The promoters are also looking for an act from Dumbarton and the Vale to fill a slot, if you fancy yourself as a performer on the day send your songs or links to your music to traffic.cone.records@gmail.com.

Tickets for the party are �13 and are available from Tickets Scotland at www.tickets-scotland.com, for a full list of acts go to www.liveandunderground.co.uk.