THE first headline acts for next year’s Purbeck Valley Folk Festival have been confirmed. Afro Celt Sound System, the 11-piece band which features musicians from West Africa, India and Ireland, will top the bill on Saturday night

Sunday night’s headliner is Irish chanteuse Cara Dillon, who will also be bringing her six-piece band.

The Purbeck Valley Folk Festival, now in its 11th year, is known for its laid-back afternoon Songwriter Circle.

For 2019, it’s Chris Difford (of Squeeze), John Bramwell (I Am Kloot) and the lovely Thea Gilmore.

Organisers Catherine and Paul Burke stress that the family-friendly event is much more than just a music festival.

“Purbeck Valley Folk Festival isn’t just a great music festival. There are a huge number of craft workshops and demonstrations, including traditional wood turning, blacksmithing, crochet, tie-dye, jewellery-making and pottery. The healing area has yoga, meditation, massage and loads more.

“And there are so many children’s activities that they will be kept busy all day and not get bored.”

They added: “We especially want to say thanks for the incredible support we have received from local people.”

The Purbeck Valley Folk Festival runs from Thursday, August 15 to Sunday, August 18 at Purbeck Valley Farm (BH20 5HU).

Tickets for 2019 are on sale now at the festival website (see below). Locals living in Swanage and Wareham receive a 20 per cent discount by using the promo codes: BH19 or BH20.

* For tickets, and more information, visit website purbeckvalleyfolkfestival.co.uk