SIX stages, more than 60 musical acts, storytelling, dancing and lots of fun; it's almost time for the return of a much-loved folk festival.

The line-up for this year's Bridport Folk Festival is looking impressive already, with further acts yet to be added to the bill.

The not-for-profit event is in its third year but is already a huge fixture on Bridport’s calendar, attracting performers and folk fans from across the country.

As well as the many folk acts, the three-day festival will offer Morris, clog, rapper, and Appalachian dancing, Ceilidhs, workshops, music sessions, a children's area, storytellers and craft stalls.

South Street will close on the Sunday for a huge Morris dance.

New venues have been added to this year's programme, and festival organisers say more of the town's pubs will be involved.

Organiser Chris Deacon is excited for the festival's return - and its future.

He said: "Since we started the support has been overwhelming. We've not looked back. It's been said it's the biggest new folk festival and the friendliest - the feedback has been fantastic. The festival is good fun and everyone gets involved."

More volunteers are needed to help steward this year's event, which is supporting Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance, cancer support group The Living Tree and the local food bank.

Mr Deacon said: "We're rewarding volunteers more than before and it's flexible - you can do as many hours as you like. We are always in need of volunteers and they are so important. It's good fun."

Last year's event saw disastrous weather hit the festival hard, resulting in a small financial loss. However, the festival committee was still able to make a significant contribution of £1,000 to the air ambulance as its chosen charity, due to the many fundraising events undertaken earlier in the year.

These events continue in the build-up to this year's event.

Quizzes take place at The Ropemakers on the third Thursday of every month in aid of the festival.

The next will take place at 8pm on April 18, £2 entry and cash prizes.

Bridport Folk Festival will take place at venues across the town on July 26, 27 and 28.

For more information or to become a folk festival volunteer, visit its website at bridportfolkfestival.com