A FOUR-day music event billed as a “boutique showcase of local and national talent” is attracting some recognisable names to Suffolk in only its second year.

Festeaval returns this May to scenic surroundings on the banks of the River Deben in the grounds of Woodbridge’s Tea Hut.

With some 40 artists lining up to perform, including solo musicians, bands, DJs and entertainers, the environmentally-conscious event promises to combine some familiar headline acts with up-and-coming artists.

Festeaval organiser, Peter Hepworth, has assembled a bill to include BRIT Award-winning singer-songwriter Beth Orton, chart-topping folk duo Turin Brakes, and rapidly rising electronic act Bastille.

Among other performers taking the stage across four days, from May 4 to 7, will be Manningtree’s own Kevin Pearce - supporting Beth Orton - who has appeared on several occasions in Woodbridge and last November launched his debut album at the town’s Riverside Theatre.

Also set to play is fellow Essex native Ady Johnson, from Colchester, plus Leiston band Tiny Dragons, expert guitarist Ryan Keen, and solo artists Fiona Bevan and Kal Lavelle.

Mr Hepworth, himself a musician, as well as promoter with his Blue Bus Tour company, listened to hundreds of demos and attended dozens of gigs before compiling this year’s line-up. He said: “We’re really looking forward to bringing the event back to Woodbridge for a second year.

“There will be musical acts, some live theatre, poets, opera, classical music, trade stands, quality food, and vintage clothing stalls.

“The event is unsponsored, self-branded, solar-powered, and puts a high standard of local artist alongside widely recognised acts.”

Other local businesses will be pitching in over the weekend, with Tea Hut owner Penny Bishopp involved in organising the event and Chris Mapey, landlord of The Angel, running the Adnams bar.

Festeaval kicks off at the Tea Hut at 6pm on Friday, May 4 and continues through the weekend before coming to a close on the bank holiday Monday evening.

There are 100 early-bird tickets available from Monday for �45, or �30 for seven to 16-year-olds, from The Tea Hut box office on 01394 384538, The Angel on 01394 382660, The Cross on 01394 389076, or online from www.festeaval.co.uk.

Admission is free for under-sevens and day tickets will be available on the gate.

Find out more at the Festeaval website or facebook.com/festeavalwoodbridge.