THE Purbeck Valley Folk Festival gets underway next weekend, with hundreds of music fans expected to travel to the main site near Harman's Cross.

This four-day festival, set at Purbeck Valley Farm, off the A351 Valley Road, boasts headliners Chris Difford, Justin Currie, Richard Thompson, Stornoway, Hot Rize, Kathryn Tickell and The Moulettes.

Organiser Catherine Burke said: "We have a broad definition of folk music at Purbeck Valley. As promoters we listen to the feedback our audiences gives us.

"We always ask festival-goers to tell us who they'd like to see at the festival, as well as introducing them to new music that we think they'll like."

The festival is also set to feature a host of other attractions including children's entertainers, storytellers, craft workshops, music workshops, song sessions, cinema, poetry, open mics and the Purbeck Rising talent contest.

Started in response to the hundreds of applications received by bands and artists wanting to play, Purbeck Rising offers an opportunity for new acts to perform at the family festival with a main stage slot, a days studio recording and much more up for grabs.

A festival spokesman said: "Running over the bank holiday weekend, August 27-30, revellers can expect the very best folk, roots and world music.

"The organisers have carefully chosen an exciting line-up that reflects the diversity of the current folk scene, with plenty to keep music lovers and families entertained.

"Bursting with headline acts and family fun galore the festival is set to be the highlight of the summer.

"Legendary acts rub shoulders with upcoming talent amidst the beautiful hillside surroundings of the Purbeck Folk Festival site located between Corfe Castle and Swanage."

Visit purbeckvalleyfolkfestival for more information.