Ashley Cross is more ready than ever to party as Grooves on the Green, Dorset’s best community music festival, returns next month.

To celebrate its 20th anniversary, and in recognition of the community’s grateful thanks for their efforts in the pandemic, the festival is giving away 50 tickets each day to NHS workers*.

Compered by Britain’s Got Talent semi-finalist Allan Turner-Ward, the music line up is headlined by hugely popular hard rockers Saints of Sin, whose fans include legendary DJ Johnnie Walker, on Saturday; and ukulele-wielding crowd pleasers Mother Ukers on Sunday.

The hoedown stomp of undiluted party starters Jimmy Hillbillies, Jazz Wrann & the Ruby Welts’ catchy Cajun flavours, socially charged folk fusion collective Mischa and his Merry Men and rockin’ singer songwriter Chris Payn complete Saturday’s line up with powerhouse country rock trio The Outlaw Orchestra, new outfit The Party Shack, teenage singer songwriter Emma Hardy and good time rocker Jordan Watts taking care of Sunday. 

As well as the brilliant live music on the Main Stage there’s a full programme of family entertainment on the second stage starring the award-winning Mr Merlin and Okey Dokey the Dragon – with tricks to amaze, gags to amuse and a few belly laughs thrown in, audiences are guaranteed a fun time with lots of participation, ventriloquism, comedy and magic.

The South’s leading family entertainer Krazy Kev will be appearing throughout the day delivering the very best in family fun, from magic to balloons and loads of craziness in between – his shows are not to be missed! Other attractions include children’s rides and games, trampolines, arts and crafts, toys, clothing and jewellery.

Back again this year is the famous Groove Garden with its own seating and bathroom facilities and a private gin bar; while the Real Ale and Cider Tent is stocked with the very best that Dorset can offer. There’s also a mouth watering array of quality food stalls with the emphasis on local produce and artisan makers as local businesses pull together to supportthe community spirit.

And once again Grooves will be supporting local charities – in the last five years it has raised more then £30,000 for Diverse Abilities.

 For more event information and advance tickets visit www.groovesonthegreen.com.