MUSICIANS, comedians and actors will be heading to Wyre Forest in October for this year’s Bewdley Festival.

The line-up for the 29th Bewdley Festival, which will take place between October 7 and October 16, was announced at a launch event on Friday evening (July 15).

Highlights include the Rutles, much-loved actress Anne Reid’s cabaret show and comedian Miles Jupp’s latest show.

There will also be a visit from Antiques Roadshow’s expert Andy McConnell, historian and royal biographer Kate Williams and violinist Matthew Trusler.

Two regular sell-out daytime performers will also return this year – a lecture by Max Keen which sees Max in character as Hereward the Wake and Lesley Smith will appear as Margaret Thatcher.

Dave Collins, festival director, said: “Bewdley’s 29th Festival programme has a tremendously diverse and eclectic mix with something for everyone – a range of afternoon and evening events with big names from stage, screen, concert hall, radio and television.

“A great music offer that includes an afternoon family concert with free entry for accompanied children and the opportunity for fancy dress – great comedy – a journey by film to Florence’s Uffizi Gallery – an 80s themed party night – a vibrant art exhibition and community involvement in its very successful Duck House Trail art project.

“Early ticket sales at the members’ launch were most promising.

“The full programme is available on our website and tickets go on public sale on Saturday, July 30, at 10am from Bewdley Tourist Information Centre and Worcester Live Box Office.

“Choose your events, buy your tickets and have something to look forward to in October when the summer is behind us and the nights are drawing in.”

The 10-day festival kicks off with music from Neil Innes’ iconic 70s creation the Rutles. The band are known for their visual and aural parodies of the Beatles.

Other performers include singer/songwriter Judie Tzuke, concert pianist Ashley Wass, broadcaster and foreign correspondent Andy Kershaw, Radio 4 naturalist Brett Westwood and mico-engraver Graham Short.

The festival will close with a party night with Our Friends Electric with the synthesiser hits of the 80s supported by DJ Chris Martin and a musical church service on the theme of Time.

Following last year’s great success, Jubilee Gardens will host an even bigger Duck House Trail throughout October, with more than 40 community decorated exhibits. The nearby Wyre Forest Gallery will also host a colourful and vibrant art exhibition of the abstract work of local artist, David Tedham ARBSA.

Tickets, which are now available for festival members and will go on sale for the general public on July 30, can be purchased from Worcester Live on 01905 611427 or in person at Bewdley Tourist Information Centre, in Load Street.

For the full details of the line up visit bewdleyfestival.org.uk or to view a photo gallery of the performers, click HERE.