Broadcaster, writer and former politician Ed Balls will be joining The Three Choirs Festival line up in Gloucester.

He will join forces with the Marsyas Trio as the narrator in the Three Little Mammoths on Saturday, July 29.

Written by acclaimed children’s author Eoin McLaughlin, with music by Robin Haigh, the Three Little Mammoths is a "story of kindness and adventure".

The event will take place in St Mary de Crypt, Gloucester and is one of six family events taking place at the festival between July 22 and July 29.

Author and illustrator James Mayhew will join the Flowers Band for Magic and Mischief on Sunday July 23, bringing together art, music and storytelling. Featuring The Sorcerer’s Apprentice and The Firebird, James Mayhew will introduce the tale behind each piece and paint live to the music.

Other family events include The Happy Princess, an opera written for young people and based on the timeless story by Oscar Wilde, and Dream Journeys, an interactive workshop from actor, musician and poet Edward Derbyshire.

A 20 per cent discount is available for anyone booking three or more family events, alongside half-price tickets for families on Universal Credit.

Located outside Gloucester Cathedral, the Festival Village will play host to free entertainment, including the community bandstand, which will feature live music from local performers.

There is also the opportunity to dip into a cathedral rehearsal and hear the festival music for free. Activities will be provided for children and the timings can be found at 3choirs.org/rehearsals

For further information about the Three Choirs Festival and to book tickets, visit www.3choirs.org or call the box office on 01452 768928 (Monday–Friday, 10am until 4pm).