THIS year's Kinver Music Festival promises to be bigger and better than ever.

Although the event doesn't even take place until July, interest has increased considerably following last year's success.

Organiser Tim Charnock said: "All the local pubs have bought into the festival while sponsorship has been much easier to obtain this time.

"Last year's festival exceeded expectations and attracted between 2,000 to 3,000 visitors to the village.

"The signs suggests this year's event will be bigger and offers a full three-day package."

This year's festival takes place on July 15, 16 and 17. Organisers are now asking local musicians to get in touch and register for the event.

Several artists have already signed up to return including Dan Greenaway, rhythm and blues band Three Blind Mice, jazz singer Kelly Cranston and contemporary folk group Bric-a-brac.

Mr Charnock added: "We've had sponsorship from local breweries Bathams, Enville Ales, Kinver Edge and Wyre Valley which has been a huge help."

Money raised from this year's event will go to local charity which will include Kinver Church central heating fund.

And Kinver Music Festival will be running a stage at Kinver Country Fayre, giving visitors a taste of what to expect.

Any artists wishing to perform at this year's festival are asked to email Tim Charnock at: t.charnock@btinternet.com