THE family-friendly Purbeck Valley Folk Festival has announced its first acts with further major headliners to be revealed over the coming months.

Set to return August 24-27, the popular festival is going from strength to strength with Tier 1 tickets having already sold-out.

Artists confirmed so far include singer-songwriter Ben Ottewell from Mercury Music Award winners Gomez, energetic Cornish band 3 Daft Monkeys and Dorset favourites The Ben Waters Band.

Then there’s highly-rated new talent from Blue Rose Code and a top bill of sizzling American music from bands such as Flats and Sharps, Curtis Eller's American Circus and Screamin Miss Jackson & the Slap Ya Mama Big Band who bring that irresistible New Orleans sound.

Festival organiser, Catherine Burke said: "We're really excited about the line-up we're putting together for this year. It's a really good eclectic mix with something for everyone. We're keeping to the same mix of lively bands, great songwriters and attractions that will make your jaw drop.”

The festival champions local music, traditional song-writing and originality and is a big draw for music lovers of all ages.

Other acts revealed will see raw talent and inspired folk music from Gadarene, Jess Morgan Trio and the triumphant return to the festival for Moscow Drug Club.

There’s also music from Delphis, the winners of last year's annual Purbeck Rising talent showcase and hypnotic world music from Tashkezar.

The organisers strive to carefully choose artists for an exciting festival that reflects the diversity of the current folk scene, with plenty to keep music lovers and families entertained.

Catherine added: “We ask our festival goers for feedback each year; who they enjoyed the most, who they'd like to see back and who else we should book. We take all of the feedback into account and try to keep everyone happy. There are going to be some very happy festival-goers looking forward to Purbeck Valley Folk Festival this year!"

Surrounded by spectacular views of Corfe Castle, accessible camping and some truly delicious food, Purbeck Valley Folk Festival is just as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the ears.

Running over the August Bank Holiday weekend, revellers will be treated a host of other favourite attractions including kids entertainers, storytellers, craft workshops, music workshops, song sessions, cinema, poetry, Purbeck Rising and open mics.

For tickets and more information please visit www.purbeckvalleyfolkfestival.co.uk