BUMPER crowds are expected for the 26th Swanage Folk Festival, when it gets underway next month.

The popular three-day event is based at Sandpit Field, where the concert marquee and festival bar is situated, but it includes displays across town and a spectacular dance parade on the Saturday.

Event spokesman Stephen Parker said: “The evening concert programme features some of the best musician’s around.

“We are thrilled to have Oysterband back to headline our Friday night concert supported by local Folk Award nominees Ninebarrow.

“The Saturday night features the effervescent Flats and Sharps and the new super-group Narthen, featuring sisters Jo Freya and Fi Fraser together with Lester Simpson and Barry Coope from Coope, Boyes and Simpson. Expect beautiful harmonies from this quartet.

“Folk Award winners The Young’uns are headlining the Sunday night concert tapping into the rich vein of North Eastern traditional songs. They will be supported by the exciting duo, The Rheingans Sisters.”

The festival information tent and dozens of colourful craft stalls will also be situated at Sandpit Field.

There will also be opportunities to get involved with workshops, music sessions in local pubs, and enjoy a range of free children’s entertainment over the weekend.

Stephen said: “For something more energetic there is the festival dance at the Swanage School on Saturday night featuring Threepenny Bit with caller Gordon Potts and a family dance on Saturday afternoon.

“Over 50 traditional dance teams will gather to entertain you.

“Displays take place all over the town and a spectacular dance parade takes place on Saturday afternoon.

“All the dance sides ask in return is loud applause and your spare small change.”

Full details of the festival can be found in the festival programme which is available from Swanage Tourist Information Centre.

Swanage Folk Festival takes place from September 7-9.