THERE’S just one week to go until Dorset’s longest running community music festival Grooves on the Green gets underway.

The two-day event in Poole which starts from 11am on Saturday, July 15, was launched in 2000 in an attempt to provide a focal point for the residents and businesses of Ashley Cross., a place they could come together, relax, have fun and build on the sense of community that characterises the area.

“Grooves has always been about celebrating everything that we love about Ashley Cross – it’s lively and switched on, but with a relaxed vibe that young families love just as much as people that have lived here much longer,” says organiser Jan Crump of Le Bateau.

“It remains a great day out for the family with loads of brilliant live music on two stages and some superb street food from local producers. We want everyone to enjoy the best of Ashley Cross, which is why we finish early in the evening so people can go off and enjoy the local bars and restaurants.”

As well a new Groove Garden with a private gin bar, there will be an expanded choice of food including a hog roast, wood fired pizzas and New Forest ice cream.

The music line up for this year is topped by Reef frontman Gary Stringer who will play a Sunday afternoon set on the main stage. Other highlights include Sunday headliners, The Baker Brothers and the Guns of Navarone. Saturday’s line up is topped by BOMO Swing, with support from alt-country singer songwriter DD Allen and The Royal T’s.

As in previous years £1 from every ticket sold will be donated to Dorset disability charity, Diverse Abilities Plus.

Grooves on the Green runs from 11am until 7pm each day.

For more details, or to book tickets which are priced at £10, visit the website groovesonthegreen.co.uk