WELL it’s nearly June, which means a particular favourite event in Leigh is coming up – the biggest of its kind held for free in the UK.

Yep, it’s the Leigh Folk Festival.

Now in its 23rd year, the festival is famous for its diverse programme.

Entertainment includes music, dance, comedy, poetry, puppetry, film, theatre, storytelling, children’s activities and more.

All outdoor events are free, many performers appear for no fee, and all festival staff are volunteers who work tirelessly all through the year.

Confirmed acts for this year’s event, which takes place from June 26 until June 29, are: Trembling Bells and Mike Heron, Cath and Phile Tyler, the Furrow Collective, Danny and the Champions of the World, Youth Club, Sproatly Smith, Alasdair Roberts, She’koyokh, Son Yambu, the Owl Service, the Fishwives Choir, the Lucky Strikes, the Famous Potatoes, Phil Burdett, Tallowah, Plantman and Lost Harbours.

There will be a handful of ticketed special performances.

New developments this year include an expanded centrepiece procession, a storytelling spectacular entitled Luttrell Voices, featuring Dave Tonge, the Yarnsmith of Norwich, the launch of an intimate new music venue at Leigh Sailing Club, a second stage in the beautiful Fishermen’s Chapel, and a Sunday morning Sacred Harp singing workshop.