SOME of the top artists in the folk world will be guests at the 23rd Dartmoor Folk Festival taking place at South Zeal this month.

Confirmations for the three-day event on August 11,12 and 13 include Ian Bruce whose unique style has made him recognised as one of the finest singer/ songwriters on the folk circuit today and the English Country Dance Band who prove that English music is vibrant, good to dance to and listen to.

The Irish contingent includes 14-year-old Darren Breslin who has been playing the button accordion since the age of seven and has been an Ulster champion five years running, and double act Liam Farrell (banjo) and Joe Whelan (button accordion) who can often be found playing in pubs and clubs in London.

Some familiar faces will be returning to the festival including Taffy Thomas, who has a sound reputation as a performer, raconteur and storyteller, and the Dartmoor Pixie Band.

Known as a friendly traditional festival, the weekend will also include the broom-dance championships, Dartmoor step-dance championships, a Dartmoor fayre, craft displays, dances, music hall, ceilidh, workshops and children's entertainment.

Most events take place in halls or at the village playing field, where large marquees will be erected to transfer under cover if needed.

The festival is run by an association of supporters and was founded by local musician, the late Bob Cann.

Mr Cann wanted to start his own folk festival to help revive and preserve the traditions of Dartmoor, and in particular, the traditional music, dance, song and crafts of the area.

Camping is available in fields close to the festival site and tickets cost £24 for the weekend with camping, £20 for the weekend without camping, with a day ticket for Saturday or Sunday £10. Single event tickets are also available.

For more information contact Jane White on 01837 840162.