THE myths and legends of English folk are coming alive in Wimborne this weekend as an annual festival makes its return.

Thousands of people have visited the town for the Wimborne Minster Folk Festival, with another full day of music and dance today.

Saturday's event featured a huge range of performances, including ticketed shows from the Shropshire Boatmen and Bob Carter.

But the great joy of this festival is that much is free.

Anyone can walk the streets of the town and learn more about the history and culture of folk music, from the colourful dance of the Morris men to the ancient stories behind the songs.

Not all acts have their origins in folk - a personal highlight was the Wessex Pistols, who performed a lively set in the Square - but there's a great range of entertainment to enjoy.

Every pub is full, with people spilling out onto the pavements to take in the music.

There's theatre performances for the youngest visitors, music workshops for those inspired to pick up a guitar themselves and ceilidhs for anyone who wants to join in.

It's a well-organised festival with something to enjoy wherever you go.

I can't recommend enough that everyone visits for the final day today.