ONE of the highlights in West Devon each summer is the Dartmoor Folk Festival, centred on the village of South Zeal.

The event attracts people from near and far who meet up to hear top artists performing alongside some of the best local entertainers from the folk world.

The festival has a relaxed atmosphere, yet offers an itinerary full of all kinds of traditional music, song and dance.

Highlights of the 2004 festival, from Friday August 6 to Sunday August 8 will include the Dartmoor Step Dance and Broom Dance Championships, a Dartmoor Fayre, craft displays, dances, a music hall, ceilidh, workshops, folk service, pub sessions, children?s entertainment, plus a Sunday ramble.

The event fits in neatly after the huge International Sidmouth Festival, which means many folk enthusiasts go directly to South Zeal. However, the Dartmoor Folk Festival is organised by members of the local community who work hard all year to give it that special, welcoming, friendly feel.

The festival was founded by local musician the late Bob Cann, who had the idea that he would like 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.

His inspiration is continued by his family and friends, and the event ? this will be the 27th festival ? has become more than he could possibly have imgained.

Events take place in local halls and at the village playing field. Local crafts will be displayed in a craft tent and there will also be sideshows, dance displays, and always, much, much more. There is a caravan and campsite with all the usual facilities.

For further information send an sae to the secrteray, Jane White, Sunnyhill, Zeal Head, South Zeal, Okehampton, Devon, EX20 2JL, or telephone her on 01837 8401202.