BLOXHAM’S annual music festival promises to be bigger and better this year, and has added an extra day to prove it.

Self-professed purveyors of high-octane folk rock Leatherat will be headlining one of the four stages on Saturday, and it is very much their home turf.

Bloxfest celebrates the beautiful village of Bloxham, which is close to the heart of the band. Fiddle player Jono Watts was born and raised in the village and charismatic frontman Pete Bailey has been in residence for nearly a decade.

Pete said: “We’ve supported Bloxfest from its inception and we relish the opportunity to play for the locals here as many of them are our close friends and family.

“There’s such a great buzz in the village over the whole weekend it’s impossible not to enjoy yourself. There’s definitely a focus on great music and some superb bands are performing.”

The event kicks off tomorrow with an acoustic set from punk veteran Edward Tudor-Pole, founder of the band Tenpole Tudor and former host of The Crystal Maze.

As well as music on Saturday, there will be activities for all the family. Organisers expect around 3,000 to enjoy the shows.

The Bloxham May Festival begins tomorrow at the Elephant & Castle, from 7.30pm, with Edward Tudor-Pole. Tickets cost £5. It continues on Saturday, with music at a host of venues throughout the village. Admission is free. For more details go to www.bloxfest.org.uk