INDIE band frontman Ben Ottewell will be hoping he doesn't get himself arrested when he heads to Dorset this summer.

The singer-songwriter and lead guitarist of 1998 Mercury Music Prize winners Gomez, whose hits include Whippin' Piccadilly and Get Myself Arrested, is among the acts confirmed for the Purbeck Valley Folk Festival.

The summer family-friendly festival has announced its first acts with further major headliners to be revealed over the coming months.

Festival organiser Catherine Burke is excited for what promises to be a 'jaw-dropping event' for music lovers.

Tickets have already been selling fast for the popular four-day event that takes place from August 24-27 at Purbeck Valley Farm near Corfe Castle.

As well as Ben Ottewell, who has been forging a successful solo career, artists confirmed so far include energetic Cornish band 3 Daft Monkeys and Dorset favourites The Ben Waters Band.

There’s highly-rated new talent from Blue Rose Code and a top bill of sizzling American music from bands such as Flats and Sharps, Curtis Eller's American Circus and Screamin Miss Jackson & the Slap Ya Mama Big Band who bring that irresistible New Orleans sound.

Organiser Catherine Burke said: "We're really excited about the line-up we're putting together for this year. It's a really good eclectic mix with something for everyone. We're keeping to the same mix of lively bands, great songwriters and attractions that will make your jaw drop.”

The festival champions local music, traditional songwriting and originality and is a big draw for music lovers of all ages.

Other acts revealed will see raw talent and inspired folk music from Gadarene, Jess Morgan Trio and the triumphant return to the festival for Moscow Drug Club.

There’s also music from Delphis, the winners of last year's annual Purbeck Rising talent showcase and hypnotic world music from Tashkezar.

The organisers strive to carefully choose artists for an exciting festival that reflects the diversity of the current folk scene.

Catherine added: “We ask our festival goers for feedback each year; who they enjoyed the most, who they'd like to see back and who else we should book. We take all of the feedback into account and try to keep everyone happy.

"There are going to be some very happy festival-goers looking forward to Purbeck Valley Folk Festival this year."

Running over the August Bank Holiday weekend, revellers will be treated a host of other favourite attractions including kids entertainers, storytellers, craft workshops, music workshops, song sessions, cinema, poetry, Purbeck Rising and open mics.

Weekend tickets (Thurs-Sun) include free camping and are on sale now at £100 (youth £50, children over three £20).

For more information see www.purbeckvalleyfolkfestival.co.uk

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