Family-friendly folk festival

Spokeswoman Lorraine Gould said: “What could be better on a warm summer’s day than sitting outside in beautiful woodland surroundings listening to great music and enjoying a pint! Crawley’s 20th annual Folk and Beer Festival offers all this and more.

“All ages will find something to entertain them at this family-friendly fest. There are free performances from Spare Parts who play fiddle and concertina, blues from Cajun Dawgs, alternative folk from 4Square, contemporary Irish music with Ciarog plus free workshops in music, song and dance all leading up to the Festival Ball (ticketed event) on Saturday evening.

“Everyone will enjoy the free colourful dance displays in traditional styles and Morris dancing and then how about enjoying food from around the world at one of the many refreshment stands.

“For those who love to shop, the festival market offers the chance to pick up unique pieces of clothing, beautiful craftwork and jewellery, fresh herbs and flowers and much more.

“For older visitors there is also the Beer Festival offering ales, ciders and perries from the beer tent all weekend. There are 45 different drinks to choose from, all from small, local breweries. Sample a pint of Rip Tide from Littlehampton or Brighton Blonde. For those who find themselves over indulging at the weekend there’s also Guilt Complex from Surrey Hills Co and Shooting Star from the Hammerpot Brewery.”

Lorraine added: “Don’t forget to book for the ticketed events too, which this year include the Polish Pogues Warsaw Village Band (Fri, June 24 7.30pm), blues from The Elevators (Fri, June 24, 8.15pm), local folk legends The Copper Family (Sat, June 25, 7.15pm) and The Demon Barbers – Time Gentlemen Please (Sun, June 26 5pm), fresh from winning Best Live Act at the 2011 BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards.”

More details on www.myspace.com/crawleyfolkfestival.