BRADFORD Roots Music Festival is back celebrating its local music scene for the third year running this weekend.

More than 40 acts at the Wiltshire Music Centre are likely to show the town has more than its fair share of talent, with familiar names like folk club favourite Mike Scott and merry boat-dwelling rogues Calico Jack, joined by emerging artists Natalie Holmes and Ben Ruddock.

Like Bradford’s music scene, the festival line-up is diverse, with something to please fans of pop, jazz and folk.

Headlining on the Saturday at 9.15pm are Bradford’s answer to Arcade Fire, melancholic dreamy pop outfit Wasuremono. They follow the Pentangle-like Hot Feet from Stroud and Bristol jazz band Arner Klarc.

Meanwhile top of the bill on the Utter Shambles Stage, on Saturday at the same time, are Diana Johnstone and Ray Bradfield.

Headlining on the Sunday are The Magnificent AK47, a male choir who meet in an Ashton Keynes pub, with a neighbouring stage hosting Akabella, another celebration of the human voice.

All musicians in the audience, from nervous first-timers to seasoned performers, will have a chance to join the performers in an open mic session hosted by Tom Rockliffe on Saturday, 2-4pm.

And one of the standout performers of last year's open mic, Ayesha Tizard, has her own slot on the bar stage this year, on Saturday afternoon.

Taking part is also encouraged in the belly dancing, ceilidh and Morris dancing sessions.

Marketing manager Gary Prestwich said: “If you'd like to join in, there are plenty of workshops.

“On Sunday morning, there's a Poet Brunch, where Andy Fawthrop and Merv Grist will be more than happy, indeed desperately grateful, to hear you read your own poems.

“The children are well catered for in Chrissie Weltike's wonderful creative room, plus there is traditional wassailing and a children's parade on Saturday.”

A weekend pass costs £18 for an adult and £14 for 12 to 17-year-olds.

Tickets for Saturday are £13/£9 and Sunday £8/£6. Proceeds go to Wiltshire Music Centre charitable trust, Zone Club and Wiltshire Young Carers.

Book at www.wiltshiremusic.org.uk/BradfordRootsFestival or call the box office on (01225) 860 100.