THE country's biggest wheels-themed family friendly festival will extend into Bournemouth town centre for 2016, it has been announced.

Bournemouth Wheels Festival, now in its third year, is scheduled to roar into life in just over five months.

Last year around half a million petrolheads packed out the seafront for three days of adrenaline-pumping, high octane action.

Now, for the first time, spectators will be able to view pre-war and vintage cars in Bournemouth Square.

Bournemouth Town Centre Business Improvement District (BID) chairman Lisa Tucker said: "This will bring a taste of the action to the heart of Bournemouth's shopping district."

The route through the Lower Gardens will also be lined with children's entertainers, organisers confirm.

New to this year's festival are professional street bike stunt team 'Two Brothers' and the Wheels Showcase, which promises 'mind-boggling' motorbike trails and tricks.

Event favourites such as the demonstration straight, quad bike king Kangaroo Kid, driving ace Paul Swift, The Monster Truck Arena and Team Extreme's BMX riders and skaters will make a welcome return, organisers say.

Bournemouth Borough Council tourism portfolio holder, Cllr Lawrence Williams, said: "In addition to the buzz around the event's star performers and the sheer breadth of attractions on offer, the inclusive spirit of Bournemouth Wheels Festival generates a family-friendly atmosphere around the town.

"Wheels 2016 is anticipated to appeal to residents and visitors alike, as well as a variety of ages, backgrounds and interests, more so than ever before."

Meanwhile, Bournemouth Coastal (BID) chairman Paul Clarke said he was delighted to be back on board as festival partner this year.

"We're immensely proud of our coastline," he said. "It provides the perfect backdrop for such an extensive and vibrant event.

"We're also pleased to be bringing the very successful evening event on the Saturday back to Southbourne for a second year."

Covering the under and overcliff areas between Bournemouth and Boscombe piers, the festival site boasts a wide selection of food stalls, trader, charities, motoring organisations and a traditional funfair along the seafront.

The event takes place from Friday, June 3 to Sunday, June 5.