NORTH Wiltshire Festival 2004 could have big name stars and a better role for business, according to new festival project leader Steve Cox.

Mr Cox, 52, has just started his new job co-ordinating the festival for North Wiltshire District Council - and he already has plenty of ideas for boosting the event.

"Business has to be at the centre of the event, because it is business that drives it forward and pays for it," he said.

"I think it will be tremendous. I would like to see some big names down here, because it will attract people and publicity.

"Last year's event was good, and I hope to upgrade it even more."

Mr Cox ran his own events management and concert promotion company for ten years, which worked with national organisations and major artists, including Paul McCartney and Genesis. His company produced more than 30 concerts and was responsible for a number of regional and national music festivals, business exhibitions and seminars.

More recently he co-ordinated the PR for the launch of a Midlands-based radio station, and created and managed its in-house news department.

Now Mr Cox, who comes from Shropshire, is brewing plans for North Wiltshire Festival 2004, which will take place on July 16 and 17 in Chippenham's Monkton Park.

Last year the event attracted around 18,000 to a concert starring the late Edwin Starr.

But Mr Cox admitted areas for improvement had been identified. He wants to make the next event more integrated, providing a showcase for the whole community.

"It has been successful but I would like the business community to be more involved, and getting more out of it," he said.

He will be consulting with businesses locally to find out how they would like to enrolled in the project.

While the festival proper will still be two days long, Mr Cox plans to begin festival related events earlier in the year to widen its influence and create more interest and involvement.

He is also keen to involve all the North Wiltshire towns, to make it a truly district event.

"I would like to send out an invitation to local business, community groups and all sorts of groups to come forward with ideas," he said. "I think it's going to be fun."

He said he had some big name stars in mind to invite to the festival but he is keeping his cards close to his chest at the moment.

Council leader Ruth Coleman said: "I am delighted that Steve is now on board. He has some fresh ideas about the festival and how we can engage businesses and the community.

"There are just 12 months to go before the event and Steve has been set a tough challenge. We all look forward to working with him to make this festival a unique event."