Rising folk-pop stars Stornoway have been added to the stunning line-up of this year's Purbeck Valley Folk Festival. The quirky four-piece have enchanted fans and critics alike with the themed songwriting and arrangements.

With an eagerly awaited third album released this month, Stornoway are set to soar at the beautiful hillside surroundings of the Purbeck Valley Folk Festival (27-30 August), located on the A351 (Valley Road) between Corfe Castle and Swanage.

“"We have a broad definition of folk music at Purbeck Valley and Stornoway with great songwriting and interesting use of instruments, are a perfect fit. The songs on the new album are great and I can't wait to hear them all live at our little festival," says Purbeck valley Folk festival organiser Catherine Burke.

Stornoway’s most recent album, Bonxie, combines the band’s passion (and background) for wildlife and birds, yet they still retain their sense of fun with arrangements and choice of instruments. The themes and songs, were inspired by singer (and Dr. of Ornithology) Brian Briggs’ need to move away to a wilder corner of Britain. He says, “I wanted a shake up and I wanted to feel more connected to the outdoors – I wanted to feel small.”

It’s the latest progression for one of the most exciting bands on the contemporary folk scene. In 2009, Stornoway became the first ever unsigned band to appear on Later... with Jools Holland and performed alongside Sting, Norah Jones, Jay-Z, and Foo Fighters.

Since then Stornoway have released two studio albums, most notably the universally praised debut Beachcomber’s Windowsill and follow up, Tales from Terra Firma. The Oxford-based band will also be joined by further new headline additions Caravan of Thieves, Cardboard Fox, Flats & Sharps and Beth Porter & The Availables.

The family-friendly festival is topped by a stellar line-up that also includes Chris Difford, Justin Currie, Richard Thompson, Kathryn Tickell, Megson, Martha Tilston & the Scientists, Phillip Henry and Hannah Martin and the Moulettes.

Tickets are selling fast for this year’s festival, which takes place on 27-30 August. Weekend tickets (Fri-Sun) include free camping and are on sale now at just £100 (youth £50, children over three £20). A limited number of Festival day tickets will also be available.

For more information please visit www.purbeckvalleyfolkfestival.co.uk and for tickets call 023 80711818 or www.ticketsouth.co.uk