A PROCESSION led by a record breaking percussion band, belly dancing and infectious fusion music are just a few of the highlights at next week's Calstock Festival, which is a guaranteed 'good time' for all the family.

With a green theme running throughout the three days — from Friday, May 29 to Sunday, May 31 — the focus for the 19th Calstock festival will be on re-use, recycling and responsibility. Everything is free on festival day (Saturday) from noon to 6pm.

The popular event looked like it might not happen this year because most of the committee members had moved from the area, but local resident Mai Evans and a group of friends saved the day and now an exciting weekend of music, art and workshops is planned, celebrating local creativity and diversity.

Mai said: 'There is so much local talent and so many green-minded people in this area. There will be recycled materials in the workshops and a flea market on the Sunday and in these credit crunch times we think the green theme is particularly appropriate.

'It will be a guaranteed good time and pure escapism for the whole family — there will be something for everyone whether you want to sing, dance, create or dress up.'

Calstock junk band Big Beat, who hold the world record for the largest percussion session and appeared on the Paul O' Grady television show, will play on the wooden boat on the quay before leading a procession into the village hall to continue their set on Saturday; fusion band Circus of Sound will play on the same night.

There will be bands on the green from noon, including Tavistock band Offshore Drift, Out to Grass and Calstock's own Spoonbender, plus Plymouth punk band The Bus Station Loonies.

Between the bands there will be an assortment of unicyclists, belly dancers and tunes from DJ Spike to keep everyone entertained.

There will be a selection of market stalls selling crafts and local produce and a full programme of workshops to suit all ages, including interactive story-telling from Africa, clay, recycled craft and learn how to mix and scratch.

A family-friendly dub and reggae night, in memory of Dave Lewis, kicks off the festival on Friday evening in Calstock Village Hall and The Earth Cafe will provide vegetarian food.

Sunday's events include a shadow puppet workshop and open mic session where people can just turn up and play and high tea and cakes will be served.

Dust down those party frocks and get out those glad rags because the weekend will end in style as the festival film night brings you the hilarious Black Cat White Cat.

Throughout the weekend there will be an open exhibition of local art at the Lime Kiln Gallery with around 100 paintings and other artwork.

To find out more go onto the website: [email protected]">[email protected]