SWAGGERING electronic group Dub Pistols are set to headline the biggest ever Alresford Music Festival.

The veteran six-piece will headline Arlebury Park on Saturday June 11 in what organisers have described as a “major coup”.

Known for their eclectic mash-ups of jungle, reggae and big beat, the troupe is the first major act to be confirmed for the weekend.

More than 25 other names are due to be announced later this month. Joining Dub Pistols on the first announcement are local acts RattleWreck, The Hattie Jacques’ Playlist, Southampton Ukulele Jam and Rescue Me Too, a blues project raising money for Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance.

Camping has been extended this year, with festivalgoers able to set up on Friday evening and stay until Sunday morning. A record 3,500 people attended last year’s festival, headlined by funk outfit Salut.

This year the festival boasts a new family arena with activities and entertainment including street theatre, bungee trampolining, circus skills, climbing and an inflatable assault course. Four live music stages, arts, crafts and bars will also be on offer.

Free events are being held in the town on Friday June 10, including a Soul Cellar DJ set at the Swan Hotel and live music in other pubs.

Shuttle buses run to and from Winchester and Alton railway stations over the weekend.