THE annual Upton Folk Festival is returning next weekend, bringing its everpopular blend of colourful sights and sounds to the riverside town.

Taking place over May Bank Holiday weekend, from Friday, May 4, until Monday, May 7, an impressive array of local and national talent will be performing in the streets and in venues around Upton in a variety of free and ticketed events.

The festival is now in its 23rd year and organisers hope 2012 will be one of the very best years yet.

Chairman Richard Hannah said: “Many superb performers, bands and dance displays have been booked to perform and the festival will contain all the features we have developed over the years, and some new ideas that we hope you will enjoy.

“In the main marquee there will be concerts from excellent acts, some household names and others recent discoveries by our artistic director and there will also be top quality ceilidhs on Saturday and Sunday and more casual dances throughout the weekend.”

There will also be plenty more “informal” concerts as well as workshops, street entertainment and stalls throughout the weekend.

A major feature of the folk festival is morris dancing, and more than 50 groups have been lined up to perform this year and take part in the traditional festival procession at noon on the Sunday.

Prices have been held at the same level as previous years, with advance weekend tickets available at the discounted rate of £45 for adults (concessions £40) and £22 for 14 to 18-year-olds, while camping is as always available to weekend ticket holders at a cost of £10 per head.

For more details or to book, visit uptonfolk.org or contact Upton tourist information centre in person or on 01684 594200.