CHAS and Dave feature among the line-up for this year’s Abbeyfest music festival in Bury St Edmunds.

Abbeyfest 2013 is taking place in the picturesque Abbey Gardens over the weekend of July 19, 20 and 21.

Organisers have now announced the first acts for Friday, July 19.

The “legendary” Chas and Dave are back by popular demand, with Dave deciding to come out of retirement.

They began writing and performing songs together in 1972, having been friends since the early sixties.

Their hits include ‘Ain’t No Pleasing You’ which reached number two in the charts in 1982.

The Dubliners will also be performing their Legend Show on the first day of the festival, which is its only summer 2013 UK festival appearance.

In 2012 The Dubliners celebrated 50 years on the road and were honoured by the BBC Folk Awards with a ‘lifetime Achievement Special Award.’

But following the sudden death of founding member Barney McKenna and John Sheahan’s decision to retire, it was agreed that The Dubliners, as a touring band, would come to an end.

The Legend show features Sean Cannon, Eamonn Campbell, Patsy Watchorn and Gerry O’Conner, who have more than 60 years of performing with The Dubliners between them and will continue to play all the classic songs and ballads, including Whiskey in The Jar and Dirty Old Town.

The Kate Rusby Band is also part of the Friday line-up.

Described as the “defining voice of contemporary English folk music”, Kate Rusby’s interpretations of traditional songs and self-penned tunes have won her an audience that reaches beyond the genre.

After celebrating twenty years in the music industry in 2012, she is taking a well-earned rest from touring for the first half of the year.

Summer 2013 sees her return to a few carefully selected festivals/outdoor concerts before embarking on her ever popular autumn tour in mid-September.

At Abbeyfest she will be joined on stage by “the cream” of British folk musicians who form part of her band.

To book tickets call the box office on 01603 508050 or visit www.ueaticketbookings.co.uk

Visit www.abbeyfest.net