AN annual Cotswold music festival celebrating the wealth of talent in Gloucestershire, Wiltshire and surrounding areas, returns this Bank Holiday weekend for the sixth year running.

With a jam-packed line-up of music, a weekend of family-friendly activities and a huge selection of food and drink, the stage is set for another top year for the Lechalde Festival.

Some of the local performers include George Montague, Light Zeppelin, Plucking Different Ukulele Band, festival stalwarts Frankenstein’s Lobster, The Cotswolds Voices, Genevieve Miles and half-homegrown talent Sax Appeal.

Jennie Rainsford, festival director, said: “We try and feature young, local and up and coming bands, it gives them exposure to an audience that may not otherwise normally see them perform and gives performers the experience of being part of a big event”.

Lechlade-born saxophonist Ben Woodard forms one half of Sax Appeal, which came together at Sheffield University. “We’ve watched Ben grow into a charming young man and talented musician,” said Jennie. “We heard him play recently in The Riverside Pub and offered him a slot straight away. It’s very important to us to be able to provide a platform for live music and encourage young talent.”

There are many more acts from Wiltshire, Oxfordshire and Worcestershire and around the UK playing the three stages over the weekend, and music lovers of every genre can expect to see more than 70 acts, including this year’s headliners Scottish rock band, The Proclaimers.

Other 80s rockers Doctor and the Medics, as well as indie rock band, Hunter and the Bear, and the ultimate Pink Floyd Tribute Show will also be performing.

Visit lechladefestival.co.uk for full line-up details and to book tickets.