ORGANISERS of the Middlewich Folk and Boat Festival have promised a bumper programme of live music and canalside activities for this year’s three-day event.

Festival-goers are set to fill a variety of the town’s venues in June, for a mixture of entertainment on the main stage, fringe artists and concerts at both Middlewich Civic Hall and Middlewich Royal British Legion.

Dave Thompson, events manager at Middlewich Town Council, said it had built on last year’s successes, which was the first time the council had organised the town’s flagship event.

But he said this year’s festival would be promoted under a slightly different name - FAB – to reflect the council’s new role in the event, and also to make it more snappy.

“This year, we have focussed a lot more on the boat side, which hopefully will attract more boaters to the town during the weekend.

“There will also be more activities on the canalside and more canal-themed shows and activities.

“As well as the old music favourites coming back, we have got some new bands coming from all over the country, from Chester to Brighton.”

The festival will also play host to international act, the Watoto Children’s Choir, who strive to raise awareness about the plight of orphaned and vulnerable African children through a range of stories, music and dance.

Talking of the choir, Dave added: “I am chuffed to bits – on the Diamond Jubilee they are singing for the Queen at Buckingham Palace and then coming here, and we are looking forward to welcoming them.

“The beauty of our festival is people can come and get a taste of it and there won’t be any cost “The fringe acts and the live stage are all free and that’s where the bulk of residents and villagers go.”

The festival, which will run between June 15 to 17 inclusive, will also include Middlewich Rose Fete parade through the town centre and also the crowning of the town’s Rose Queen.

For further information, visit midfest.org.uk BREAKOUT MIDDLEWICH residents can enjoy discounted ticket prices for events at Middlewich British Legion as part of this year’s FAB Festival.

Festival patron Mark Radcliffe will perform with the Big Figures on Friday, June 15 and Glenn Tilbrook will take to the stage on Saturday, June 16.

For further information about the discounts and to buy tickets, visit the town council offices and bring proof of your address.