Valley’s Month-Long Feast of Fun

Throughout May, the borough will host no less than four festivals, as well as a feast of exhibitions and family events.

The Ribble Valley Jazz Festival features 25 live music events from April 29 to May 2 at nine venues in Clitheroe culminating in a dance party at the Grand featuring "the world's greatest swing band" King Pleasure and the Biscuit Boys.

For singing enthusiasts, SingFest at St Mary's Centre, Clitheroe, on May 6, will see eight local choirs take to the stage, while UK salsa champion Noel Hernandez will lead a dance masterclass at the Grand, Clitheroe, on May 21, in a joint bill with popular nine-piece Cuban band Sierra Maestra.

Family-friendly events include the popular Sheepfest from May 7 to 8 featuring a fun-filled weekend of displays and workshops, decorated sheep and traditional dance.

While for fine ale enthusiasts St Mary's Centre will also host the Clitheroe Beer Festival from May 13 to 14.

Ribble Valley Borough Council's arts development officer, Katherine Rodgers, said: "Ribble Valley has hosted some superb arts events over the years, but many of them in isolation.

"Now these events have been brought together in a fantastic celebration of Ribble Valley art and culture, and we are looking forward to an exciting, vibrant month."

The MayFest has been coordinated by the Ribble Valley Arts Alliance, a public and private sector partnership coordinated by Ribble Valley Borough Council aimed at promoting arts in Ribble Valley.

Comprehensive MayFest listings and further information is available from the Clitheroe Visitor Information Centre on 01200 425566 or www.ribblevalleyarts.org