HEADLINE musicians at this year’s Purbeck Valley Folk Festival will also be entertaining fans with the stories behind their songs - during an exclusive songwriting circle event.

This year’s circle will include Kathryn Williams, Michele Stodart and Ross Wilson of Blue Rose Code.

Festival organiser Catherine Burke explained: “The songwriters’ circle is a unique way of hearing these songwriters’ in an intimate, less formal way, hearing a little bit about the song and how they came up with it, and the writing process.”

Kathryn Williams is an English singer-songwriter who has released 13 studio albums, written and arranged for a multitude of artists, and was nominated for the 2000 Mercury Music Prize. Kathryn also performs a concert with her trio on the Saturday afternoon.

Joining her is Michele Stodart, who with The Magic Numbers landed in the top ten with their double-platinum-selling debut album in 2005. Michele also has a successful solo career that will see her perform new material at the festival on Saturday evening.

Also in the circle will be Scottish musician Blue Rose Code who has an army of celebrity fans such as Ewan McGregor, Edith Bowman and Ian Rankin. Blue Rose Code is actually acclaimed songwriter Ross Wilson who will be performing with his trio at the festival on the Saturday.

Catherine added: “The songwriters’ circle was mentioned in lots of your feedback as one of the favourite features at the festival. This year it is shaping up to be even better.”

Purbeck Valley Festival revellers will be able to enjoy a host of attractions, including kids entertainers, storytellers, craft workshops, music workshops, song sessions, cinema, poetry, Purbeck Rising and open mics.

The festival runs from August 24-27 at Purbeck Valley Farm, off the A351 at Harmans Cross. Visit purbeckvalleyfolkfestival.co.uk.