MUSIC enthusiasts from across the country will converge on Clitheroe next weekend for the annual folk festival.

The Clitheroe Folk Festival, supported by the Lancashire Evening Telegraph, takes place from June 4 to 6 and promises street entertainment, special workshops for youngsters, pub sessions, ceilidhs, comedy nights and a grand finale concert.

Clitheroe tourism officer Mary Parker, said tickets were selling well and campsite bookings particularly high.

"We are expecting a last-minute rush for tickets as in previous years and looking forward to a great event. We have received inquiries from across the North-West and beyond," she said.

Organisers say the festival, also supported by Clitheroe and Ribble Valley Councils, Lancashire Youth and Community Service and Barker's Primrose Nursery, promises a weekend of superb entertainment.

The opening concert, at Clitheroe Parish Hall on June 4, features Lancashire favourite Rebecca Green, renowned Canadian fiddler Pierre Schryer and vocalist Rory McLeod. A concert on June 5 at the parish hall features top folk band The Poozies and The Albion Band, followed by a ceilidh featuring Jabadaw and caller Dave Hunt.

St Michael and St John's Social Centre, Lowergate, hosts a comedy night on June 5, featuring Joe and Ben Broughton, Dave Summers and Maxi and Mitch.

Throughout June 5 there will be colourful street displays by Morris dancers, including the Bradshaw Mummers, the Witchmen and Buckle Down.

Meanwhile, workshops for budding musicians take place at the Trinity Youth and Community Centre and the New Inn, both in Parson Lane. A brass concert on June 6 at Clitheroe Civic Hall features the newly-formed Clitheroe Town Band and the Slaidburn Brass Band.

A grand finale concert at the parish hall will feature Bernard Wrigley and top Irish acts Jack-e-McCauleyand The Poormouth.

Further details and tickets for all concerts are available from the Tourist Information Centre, Market Place, on 01200 425566.

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