Young Dorset acoustic musicians are being invited to apply to perform at a local festival. 

The Tolpuddle Martyrs' Festival is seeking performers for its Friday Acoustic Stage at this year's event.

The festival is taking place from Friday, July 19 to Sunday July 21.

A spokesperson for the festival said: "Following the success of the Acoustic Stage in 2023, the Tolpuddle Martyrs’ Festival has renewed its acoustic stage contest, and is seeking musical talent applications directly from the Dorset community.

"Two performance slots are available on the Friday afternoon acoustic stage. These are for acoustic original solo/duo/trio acts.

"The Acoustic Stage is a recent, highly popular, addition to an already vibrant festival, and the slots represent a great showcase."
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Festival organisers said that, although all artists are invited to apply to perform in the slots, priority will be given to local applicants, under 30 years old, playing predominantly original music.

Successful applicants will receive a small fee plus additional benefits including weekend festival tickets. The closing date for applications is Sunday, March 31.

The Tolpuddle Martyrs’ Festival, is the Trade Union Congress’ flagship festival and showcases a wide range of musical genres, political discussion, and a march through the village of Tolpuddle commemorating the legacy of its Martyrs.

In 1834, six farm workers were sentenced to seven years’ transportation to Australia for forming a union.

More information about how to apply and the festival is available online at www.tolpuddlemartyrs.org.uk.