THE countdown has begun for the 23rd annual Somerton Summer Arts Festival.

The nine-day extravaganza, which runs from July 9 to 17, promises fun for the whole family, with everything from music and comedy to drama and exhibitions.

Performers include folk star Martin Carthy, the Pontypridd Male Choir, Arcadia Jazz, barbershop group the Rivertones, Celtic band Beggars Row, indie singer Jaime Regan, classical musician Tim Pitman, country and western outfit The Haleys, Bournemouth rockers Bosh and church organist Matthews Owens.

Tribute acts The Great Pretender (Queen), Us and Them (Pink Floyd), Complete Madness, Abba Sensations, The Two Beatles and Elvis impersonator Tim Bassett are also appearing.

Talks will be given by Somerton MP David Heath, antiques expert Betty Hayhurst, Tommy Cooper fan Clive Greenway and Jack the Ripper theorist Alan Hayhurst.

Other attractions include a West County comedy evening with Martin Smith and a performance of The Tale of Beatrix Potter, featuring Rohan McCullough.

The annual Saturday open-air market and craft fair will be held in the Buttercross area of the town and Sunday’s Fun Day will keep children entertained in the sports field.

Full details, dates, times and ticket prices are in the 80-page festival programme priced £2.50 plus postage and packaging –for more information call 01458-274148 or 01458-273432.

Alternatively follow the link below.