MUSIC festival Grooves on the Green, in Ashley Cross, is set to return next month.

To celebrate its 20th anniversary, and in recognition of the community’s grateful thanks for their efforts in the pandemic, the festival is giving away 50 tickets each day to NHS workers.

“Grooves is a fantastic day out for all the family,” said event organiser Jan Crump, who started the festival in 2000 as a way of bringing the Ashley Cross community together.

“Obviously, for all the right reasons, last year’s festival couldn’t happen but now we’re back and more determined than ever to create a weekend to remember.

“We’ve got the very best of the area’s live music talent on our main stage and loads of amazing entertainment, stalls and attractions.”

Compered by Britain’s Got Talent semi-finalist Allan Turner-Ward, the music line up is headlined by hard rockers Saints of Sin and will include DJ Johnnie Walker on Saturday, August 7, and ukulele band Mother Ukers on Sunday, August 8.

“Grooves is for everyone,” said Jan, “for music fans, bands and artists, mums and dads, grandparents, little kids, people even bring their well-behaved pets. It’s a celebration of everything that makes Ashley Cross such a lively neighbourhood.”

As well as the live music on the main stage, there is a full programme of family entertainment on the second stage starring Mr Merlin and Okey Dokey the Dragon –audiences can expect participation, ventriloquism, comedy and magic.

Other attractions include children’s rides and games, trampolines, arts and crafts, toys, clothing and jewellery.

Back again this year is the Groove Garden with a private gin bar; while the Real Ale and Cider Tent is stocked with the very best that Dorset can offer.

There will also be several food stalls with the emphasis on local produce and artisan makers, as local businesses pull together to support the community spirit.

Once again Grooves will also be supporting local charities – in the last five years it has raised more then £30,000 for Diverse Abilities.

Jan said: “As ever, the people and traders of Ashley Cross have been amazing.”

“Everyone has pitched in and there more choice than ever before. This will be the best Grooves yet, but without their efforts in volunteering, helping and sponsoring the weekend Grooves on the Green just wouldn’t be the same.”

For more information visit groovesonthegreen.com