SINGER songwriter Lloyd Cole has been confirmed as headline act at this year’s Purbeck Folk Festival.

Cole, who first sprang to fame in the 1980s with The Commotions, has become somewhat of a cult favourite in recent years.

Since the turn of the century he’s increasingly worked with acoustic sounds and folk-inspired songs.

Last year he released his 10th solo album, Standards, which also happens to be just his second since 1995 to feature a full band of additional musicians.

Purbeck Folk Festival director Michael Callaghan said: “Getting Lloyd Cole to headline is a real coup for Purbeck Folk Festival.

“He’s genuine indie pop royalty, a cult hero to thousands of fans around the world and a true music aficionado.

“He fits in perfectly with the festival’s broad approach to music and we know he’s going to love meeting fans old and new at Purbeck this year.”

Cole will perform on the festival’s Long Barn main stage, joining a bill that includes other headliners Eddi Reader, and The South.

The event, now in its sixth year, takes place over the Bank Holiday Weekend, August 21-24, at Wilkswood Farm near Langton Matravers.

Visit purbeckfolk.co.uk for more information.