MUSIC enthusiasts can expect a top-note event when Clitheroe hosts its annual folk festival next month.

The Clitheroe Folk Festival, supported by the Lancashire Evening Telegraph, will take place from June 4 to 6.

The event promises street entertainment, workshops, special workshops for youngsters, pub sessions and a grand finale concert.

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

Performances will take place out of doors in Castlegate and Castle Street for street theatre and dancing.

Organisers also hope that fringe events will spring up spontaneously all over the town throughout the weekend.

The festival, now in its fourth year, attracts thousands of folk music enthusiasts from across the country and as far away as Ireland and Europe.

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 will feature top folk band The Poozies and the ever-popular Albion Band, followed by a ceilidh featuring Jabadaw, with caller Dave Hunt. St Michael and St John's Social Centre, Lowergate, will host a comedy night on June 5, featuring Joe and Ben Broughton, Dave Summers and double-act 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 will 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 will feature the newly-formed Clitheroe Town Band and the Slaidburn Brass Band.

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

Principal organiser Phil Brown said: "We are looking forward to a smashing festival featuring some top acts. The festival is going from strength to strength and becoming a major event on the folk scene."

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

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