THE countdown to the annual Basfest is on. Gloucester Park is set to come alive with music, dance and live entertainment next weekend as the Basildon Festival returns for its 13th year.

Taking place on both Saturday, July 4, and Sunday, July 5, the site will be open to the public between 11.30am and 7.30pm.

Fans of Doctor Who will have the opportunity to meet the Time Lord himself, as Colin Baker, the sixth actor to play the Doctor between 1984 and 1986 visits the festival.

Festival-goers will be able to meet and chat with the actor and also experience the iconic Tardis, which will be landing on site as part of a special exhibition celebrating Basildon’s 60th birthday.

Basildon Council’s Festival Manager, Steve Ainslie has led the team organising this year’s event: “We have a great line up of music acts and entertainment this year,” he said.

“In light of the current economic climate we were keen to ensure we could keep Basfest as a free event for local residents to enjoy with friends and family.

For Information on this year’s Basildon Festival visit www.basildon.gov.uk/basfest