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THE annual Upton Folk Festival is set to return, bringing its traditional blend of colourful sights and sounds to the riverside town.

A blend of local and national talent will perform in the streets and in a host of venues around the town in a variety of free shows and ticketed events running from Friday-Sunday, May 2-5.

Chairman Richard Hannah said that this year the focus was being placed on the free Fringe' aspect of the festival.

"Upton has seen some difficult times recently, and we want as many people as possible to come and support the town," he said. "There's a huge line up of artists and events to come and watch. You can have a go at singing, or bring your dancing feet or your own musical instruments - it's all about joining in the fun.

"Or you can just watch and cheer from the sidelines if that's what you like to do."

There will be daily ticketed concerts in the main festival marquee and evening ceilidhs in Memorial Hall, as well as plenty of the festival's legendary concerts under the bridge'.

Streets will be awash with stalls, performers and workshops teaching everything from playing the fiddle or the spoons to vocal harmonies.

More than 35 morris sides are already confirmed to attend, and they will join together for the traditional Folk Festival Procession through the town on Sunday morning.

The local youngsters who recently triumphed at the World Irish Dancing Championships as part of the Sean Eireann McMahon Academy will also be showing off their quick-footed skills.

Upton in Bloom will also be holding its annual fundraising Duck Race on the river at 5pm on the Sunday.

Tickets for the festival and individual events are available from the Upton Tourist Information Centre, in High Street, of from the festival office on the waterfront over the weekend itself.

Weekend tickets cost £55 (concessions £45) and camping tickets (only available to weekend ticket holders) a further £10.

For more information visit www.uptonfolk.org

9:30am Tuesday 22nd April 2008

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