THE musical influences that shaped Liverpool, and a tribute to radio presenter Phil Easton will take centre stage at this year’s Mathew Street Festival.

Six stages will be located around the city centre for the August Bank Holiday music extravaganza.

The Phil Easton stage will feature the late broadcaster’s favourite bands and music.

Others will celebrate Liverpool’s historic musical influences with dedicated American, Irish, and Country and Western themed stages during the two-day event.

Mr Easton died suddenly from a brain haemorrhage four months ago. He was 59.

Mathew Street Music Festival Ltd co-director Bill Heckle said: "Phil had a record of more than 10 years helping us with the festival.

"I’d had conversations with him at Christmas regarding what the theme of the Radio City stage was going to be this year, and it’s very sad and rather ironic that he’s become a theme.

"We’ve spoken to Phil’s family and the station and we’ve got a list of his favourite bands and others he helped in his career. It will be a combination of tribute and original bands."