ENJOY two days of top quality live music and dance on June 28 and 29 when the Folk on the Quay festival returns to Poole.

Against the spectacular backdrop of Europe’s largest natural harbour, the two-day event will bring fantastic headline acts to three outdoor stages, two ceilidh dances and more than 20 teams of traditional folk dancers to Poole’s quayside during the weekend.

Part of Poole’s Wave 105 Summertime in the South events programme, this year’s line up sees songwriting troubadour Rory McLeod and his Familiar Strangers topping the bill, Sheelanagig who deliver intricate, rhythmically complex arrangements in a Balkan style, The Churchfitters, a popular Anglo-Irish outfit with an original approach to Irish music and Urban Folk Quartet with their knockout show of globally influenced, electrifying acoustic music.

In addition to the cream of the folk scene, fringe events will be taking place at the pubs, bars and restaurants lining the Quay.

Bruce Grant-Braham, chairman of the Poole Tourism Partnership, said: “Last year was outstanding, more than 10,000 people came along to the first festival to enjoy over 40 acts, far exceeding our expectations.

“The crowds were fantastic and it was a really relaxed atmosphere so we are looking forward to something really special again this year.

“As well as the chance to see some of the best Folk performers in the UK, the event showcases local talent and offers a great platform for the thriving live music scene – and this year promises to be even better.”

Festival musical director Paul Burke said: “Last year was a great success. The acts loved the location and it seemed to have an atmosphere all of its own.

“We’re building on this and bands and business are really keen to get involved.”

He added: It’s unusual for a music event like this to be free, but it works well and we are looking forward to it building a really strong reputation as a top music event.”