KT Tunstall, Seth Lakeman and 10CC heading for festival

All camping tickets have now gone with organisers warning people not to turn up with tents or motor homes unless they have a reserved space.

Festival ticket sales have also soared with star acts including KT Tunstall, Seth Lakeman and The Levellers alongside Eliza Carthy, 10CC, Show of Hands and The Selecter. Perennial festival favourites Oysterband, Andy Fairweather Low and Peatbog Faeries are also putting in special appearances at the event which runs from August 3-6 in the picturesque setting near Fareham.

And with the addition of a late-night comedy stage featuring Tom Walker (creator of internet sensation Jonathan Pie) and Mock the Week star Zoe Lyons, tickets are selling fast.

Organiser Peter Chegwyn said: “I can’t believe how well sales have gone. We are well up on previous years so this is likely to be our best event yet. In many ways we are returning to our roots with a very strong folk line-up which will appeal to the many regulars who come year after year as well as our new generation of fans. Interestingly, more than half of the sales so far are first-time buyers.

“We have already more than doubled last year’s season ticket sales. The response has been fantastic and shows the appeal of the artists as well as the event itself. We had hundreds of fans booking for this year’s festival even before we had finished clearing the site last August. People trust us to put on a great event with a terrific line-up and a wonderful atmosphere.

“Regulars know what they are getting and they like it. There is a real family-friendly feel to this event. Parents can let their children roam safely while they relax and enjoy the great music, sample the fine food and beers or browse round the many stalls. There are plenty of free activities for youngsters from bouncy castles to story-telling – and Under 10’s don’t even have to pay to get in with those aged 10-16 paying half price.”