THE HIGHEST folk festival in England is to be hosted this weekend just outside North Stainmore.

The Tan Hill Inn near Keld on the North Yorkshire Moors is the venue for the three-day event, which organisers hope will become an annual festival.

At 1,732 feet above sea level, the Tan Hill Inn is the highest pub in England and is a popular venue with walkers taking the Pennine Way.

Organiser Ian Luck said: "The idea of the folk festival came about during the foot and mouth outbreak. The idea was to organise an event when the crisis was over, which locals and visitors could enjoy. Three-years later the thing has come together.

"The festival will start on Friday August 20 when there will be a singaround session in the bar in the evening, featuring the ever-popular Scratch Band from Trimdon.

"The singaround theme will continue on the Saturday lunchtime and afternoon, when Blackface Morris dance team from Barnard Castle will perform.

"On the Saturday evening there will be a concert in the pub between 8.30pm and 11pm featuring a wealth of folk and blues talent.

"The next day, Sunday, all the players can be found back in the bar sending the survivors eventually on their way after another music session and singaround.

"Entry is FREE but the drinks are NOT! We're expecting a good turnout."

For more information contact either Ian Luck on 07813 998003 or see www.eddiewalker.net or www.tanhillinn.co.uk.