THIS year’s Evesham Festival is set to be bigger, better and more exciting than before, making it a must-visit attraction for anyone with even the faintest interest in angling.

Taking place over the Bank Holiday weekend on Saturday, Sunday and Monday, the show will see a host of angling’s biggest names go into battle on one of match fishing’s most legendary venues.

Confirmed star names attending include Alan Scotthorne, Will Raison, Des Shipp, Dave Harrell, Wayne Swinscoe and Steve Hemingray.

With more than 20 invited stars doing battle, including every member of the world-beating Drennan Team England, it should represent a masterclass in river fishing.

This year, angling has proved more varied and exciting than ever before and it looks like the river Avon might have more than its fair share of surprises in store for competitors.

Up until the last fortnight, the river’s famous population of barbel were conspicuous by their absence so far this season, but now they have really switched on to the feed.

The last two matches before the festival saw well over 20 hooked to provide winning weights.

With specimens as big as 14lb present and double-figure fish common, experts are tipping some huge fish will be banked this weekend.

The festival show includes confirmed exhibitors, such as Preston Innovations, Korum, Frenzee, Match Box, Dinsmores, Nash, Floats Direct and a host of retailers.

Running alongside the angling is the Evesham Beer Festival in the on-site tent on the Crown Meadow and led by local landlord Nigel Smith.

The stand will boast more than 20 real ales, ranging in strength and flavour, to ensure there is something for every palette.

There will be plenty to eat, courtesy of the festival’s new catering partners Event Street Foods, including pulled pork and stone-baked pizzas.

Entry to the festival is free with gates open from 9am on each of the three days.

Evesham’s Crown and Corporation Meadows are the places to head to get involved.