MUSCIANS and singers from around the county are heading for Royal Wootton Bassett later this month when the town’s annual music festival gets under way.

More than 700 singers and instrumentalists have signed up to compete at the event, which lasts almost two weeks.

Chairman John Davies, said: “We hope lots of people are able to come along to hear the wonderful music and insightful comments from our expert adjudicators.

“It’s an opportunity enjoy the performances, maybe even pick up a tip or two, and to support a festival that is helping to boost the arts in our local area.

“We would like to wish all of our entrants the best of luck.”

Last month, as final entries were being called, he said. “We’re really excited about how our music festival is growing year on year. It is a wonderful showcase of all the amazing talent and hard work that goes on in our local area.

“There are a wide range of classes available, from singing to brass, to wind, strings and piano – hopefully something for everyone.”

The programme kicks off on June 23 with the start of the three-day singing festival at the Memorial Hall.

Schools, youth and community choirs take the stage at St Bartholomew’s School for a special day on June 29 and the piano festival starts at Royal Wootton Bassett Academy on June1. The instrumental event takes place on July 2, also at the academy.

The festival, which started 12 years ago, was originally planned as a biennial event. But it proved so popular a few years later that it became annual.

It is backed by several organisations including the town council, the Royal Wootton Bassett and Cricklade Area Board, St Bartholomew’s parish church and the senior school as well as local Rotary clubs and businesses including Brian Taylor Music, Bassett Stationers and Dandelion.

Local groups like the Clarendon Players, Wootton Bassett Light Operatic Society and Cantati also lend their support.

Among the trophies up for grabs are the Mayor’s Shield, the President’s Diamond Cup and the Music Chairman’s Cup.

For details of all the performances, see the festival timetable on the website rwbaf.com Tickets cost £3.00 for adults while children get in for free. They are available the day.

Later in the year some of the music performed this summer at the festival and other events will feature in an autumn concert on November 4 at St Bartholomew’s and All Saints Church. A classical guitar festival is also being on the calendar for November 18.