DARKNESS Over Cumbria is set to return to the Lake District next weekend, bringing together another strong line-up of extreme metal bands.

Having launched last spring, the event at Fell Foot Woods has seen bands from across the country feature on its previous line-ups.

Headlining the event on Saturday July 1 will be Southampton black metal outfit Verdelet, who starred at last summer's Darkness Over Cumbria - their first visit to the region.

Specialising in fast and loud black metal, the band caused a storm in the UK metal underground with their early shows in 2012, landing them shows across several countries in Europe with some of the most prolific artists in the industry.

With their signature aggressive, haunting vocals, viscous riffing, and relentless drumming, they have become known for their impressive and theatrical live performances, helping them stand out as one of the frontrunners in the UK metal underground scene.

Old school thrash outfit Insurgency will join them on the four-band bill. The Lancaster trio, whose sound echoes the likes of early Slayer and Kreator, have quickly become one of the North West's best known underground metal acts since launching their debut EP, Death March, three years ago.

West Cumbrians Thy Demise will also be appearing, running through their set of self-penned death metal originals. The five-piece recently made it to the final of Cumbria's Metal 2 the Masses competition, having spent almost two years away from the live scene.

Rounding out the bill are Barrow-based Volition, who are one of the UK underground doom scene’s best-known names. This rare local appearance will be a chance to hear unreleased material, as well as tracks from last year's Wreck Among Ruin album.

Prior to the headline set, Barry of the Blackwoods will also be performing his popular Moonpond Ritual.

There will also be food and merchandise stalls, and camping passes are also available. Tickets can be booked by phoning 01539 531014.