THE eagerly-awaited Swanage Folk Festival celebrates its 21st anniversary this year.

Thousands of people are expected to attend the event, which is held at various venues throughout Swanage next month.

As in previous years, one of the festival’s highlights will be the dance procession from Prince Albert Gardens to the seafront, which is held on the Saturday afternoon.

Performers such as Little Johnny England, Jez Lowe & The Bad Pennies, Vin Garbutt and Kimber’s Men are set to perform this year.

Venues include the main marquee in Sandpit Field, The Mowlem Theatre, The Conservative Club and St Mary’s Church.

Hundreds of Morris dancers are expected throughout the three-day event, which boasts a range of activities for all.

“Energetic festival goers can dance the Saturday night away at our ceilidh, with a top quality caller in the main marquee on Sandpit Field,” said a festival spokesman.

He added: “All sorts of crafts are on show in the marquee, and trade stalls offer a variety of fair trade and ethnic goods for sale at our ‘festival village’ on Sandpit Field above the seafront.

“The whole town joins in the festivities with many pubs offering music in the evenings.

“There is something for everyone, including activities for children.”

Event organisers say any profits made by the festival are split between local charities and the festival fund chest, to cover occasional losses due to bad weather or other external situations. The festival runs September 6 to 8. Visit swanageff.co.uk for details.