ACCLAIMED jazz pianist Django Bates and veteran music broadcaster Andy Kershaw are among the highlights of this year’s Holmfirth Arts Festival.

And despite being 70 miles from the nearest shore, the sixth annual festival, from June 13 to 23, will have a seaside theme.

As part of the coastal theme, the festival, under new director Fiona Goh, will bring Blackpool-style illuminations to the town, together with displays from Holmfirth maker of saucy seaside postcards, Bamforth.

On the back of five-star national media reviews, Django Bates will perform with his Beloved trio at Holmfirth Picturedrome on June 16.

At the same venue the following day, Andy Kershaw will explore his colourful and varied career as a DJ and journalist, from the front line of rock and roll to some of the world’s most dangerous countries.

Other renowned artists appearing over the 10 days include comedian and radical activist Mark Thomas as well as Meltham-based poet Alison Lock, poet Harriet Tarlo and artist Judith Wood.

Ms Goh, who has worked on numerous festivals including Harrogate International Festival, said: “I’m really interested in the way that festivals can change people’s perceptions of a place and I hope the events we put on will make people see Holmfirth in a different light.

There will be some very unusual things appearing and lots of free events for everyone to enjoy.

“If you’ve never seen Django live, grab a ticket. He’s a true British eccentric and a breathtakingly original musician and performer.”

The festival will feature storytellings, a fire sculpture trail and interactive events such as den building and textile workshops.

There will also be writing deckchairs to encourage guests to get creative.

Ms Goh said: “Writing is something that everyone can do. So keep an eye out for the writing deckchairs throughout Holmfirth, where you can relax and air your views on what you love about the town. Or take part in a creative writing walk and workshop on the very last day of the Festival.”

For full details of the festival visit: www.holmfirthartsfestival.co.uk