Some of the biggest names on the gothic scene will be converging on Merton Abbey Mills this Saturday for the first ever Dark Mills Festival.

Top psychedelic roots outfit The Eden House will headline a total of 13 bands playing on the Bandstand, while there is also theatre, cabaret, burlesque and film on offer.

There is even art with Chris Achilleos, who has created some of the best-loved fantasy and glamour art of the past thirty years and was the conceptual artist for films such as Blade Runner, Conan The Barbarian and Willow.

"It's south London's first alternative arts festival," said organiser Mark Marlowe.

"It's specifically gothic themed and people travel from all over the world to festivals like this, especially people interested in punk and alternative.

"We have got bands coming all the way from Germany (Noblesse Oblige) and Spain to play and there is an incredible buzz about it.

"During the day it's going to be more acoustic and folk themed music but still very alternative, before, at about 6pm, we will let rip with a bit more rockier music.

"Lots of musicians are actually playing for free because they want to help set the festival up because there is nothing like this in London.

"In the theatre there will be plays with gothic leanings and a lot of stuff that has been up in Edinburgh.

"There will be films too, with Redemption Films having given us lots of their back catalogue of gothic films such as Living Dead Girl and Lips of Blood."

Mark is still trying to get props from the Hellraiser film as well as a full size Darlek to be dotted around the site and in its markets on the day, and insists the festival is for everyone and not just those with long leather coats and black make up.

"We have been conscious not to exclude anyone," he said.

"There is going to be nothing offensive and kids certainly won't be put off.

"We are keeping the reputation of the Mills as a family site, all we are doing is just theming it towards gothic.

"If anybody is a bit curious it's a good thing, there's something for everybody."

Dark Mills Festival, Merton Abbey Mills, Watermill Way, September 5, 10am to 2am, general admission free but charges for events. Call 0208 544 1222 or visit darkmillsfestival.com.