SWANAGE Folk Festival starts next Friday with thousands of people expected to attend the weekend event.

The traditional dance procession from Prince Albert Gardens to the seafront takes place on the Saturday afternoon, while the festival ‘village’ will be situated on Sandpit Field.

Festival committee member Davina Freedman said: “Just when you think summer is drawing to a close, Swanage comes alive with the yearly folk festival – music, concerts, ceilidh, traditional dancing displays, workshops and children’s activities.”

There will also be 60 groups of Morris Dancers, providing displays around town throughout the weekend.

Top folk acts such as The Urban Folk Quartet, The Lucy Ward Band, Blackbeard’s Tea Party, O’Hooley & Tidow, Gilmore & Roberts and Johnny Coppin & Mike Silver will be performing this year.

Saturday night sees The Jigantics, plus PJ Wright and Guy Fletcher play to the crowds.

An event spokesman said: “Folk music followers flock to the concerts, join-in sessions and try something new at workshops. The festival features a number of concerts and music in the main marquee on Sandpit Field and other venues.”

Any profit made by the festival is split, giving a percentage to a local charity, with the remainder staying in festival funds to cover the occasional loss.

There will also be a craft fair and stalls, with a festival bar in the main marquee.

Davina said: “There’s something for everyone at Swanage Folk Festival.”

The event takes place in Swanage from September 5-7.

Visit the website swanagefol kfestival.com for tickets and information.