MUSIC lovers from across the country are expected to flock to Shepley next weekend for the village's first Spring Festival.

The festival promises to offer the very best in traditional folk and acoustic music.

It will run from Friday to Sunday, with most events based around Shepley Cricket Club.

There will be a full programme of concerts and ceilidhs to represent a diversity of music styles for people of all ages and tastes.

Big name acts will share the stage over the weekend with up-and-coming talent.

Festival organisers have been working for over a year to put the event together.

Director Nicki Hampson said: "There's been a lot of interest so far and we've been quite encouraged by ticket sales.

"We've got people coming from the length and breadth of the country.

"There will be music to suit all tastes and we've got both established musicians who have been nominated for awards and young, promising musicians.

"We hope to attract a new generation of people to come and see folk music, alongside people who already listen to it.

"We wanted to create an event for the community and beyond."

Highlights will include a performance by John Tams, who wrote the music for and starred in the hit TV series Sharpe.

Isle of Skye folk rock group The Peatbog Faeries will also entertain, and they will be supported by folk and gypsy jazz quintet Sheelanagig.

Folk artist Roy Bailey, who is the festival's patron, will also appear.

On Saturday night there will be a special concert in St Paul's Church.

The Farmers Boy and Black Bull pubs will play host to musician and singers sessions, Morris dancing and a samba band.

Musicians and dancers will entertain on Folk Trains and the cricket club is holding a beer festival.

A variety of food and crafts stalls will also be on offer.