A RADDINGTON church is to form the centrepiece of a unique festival of music this September.

St Michael’s Church in Raddington, which dates back to the time of King Alfred, is in need of repairs to its fabric and tower.

The Raddington Festival of Music will see a programme of eight fundraising performances and events take place in the church and nearby rectory barn over the weekend of September 12 and 13.

This festival is one of a series of events marking the biennial 10 Parishes Festival which takes place in and around Wiveliscombe from September 5-13.

Local dance teacher Denise Welch will start things off on the Saturday with lessons including Latin and Ballroom.

This will be followed by seven musical events through Saturday and Sunday including a Young Perfomers’ Platform that includes students from Richard Huish College, Queen’s College and Wellington School.

A candlelight concert featuring the Clayhanger String Quartet completes the Saturday programme.

The mixed-voice choir, Voices of Exmoor, will present a concert of lively and light-hearted songs on the Sunday followed by lunch.

Saffron Summerfield and Hazel Prior will move things on from 2.15pm with a performance of jazz, blues and folk tunes inspired by Exmoor on Celtic Harp and Guitar.

For the complete weekend programme, see www.ticketsource.co.uk/raddingtonfestivalofmusic or phone 01984 248254.