A NEW festival will be taking place in the village of Burley this month.

Over the August bank holiday weekend, Manor Park's red deer sanctuary will host 50 stalls selling local produce. Around 45 local artists and crafters will also be at the festival, and a variety of music acts will be performing.

Mandy Payne, managing director of Stir! Events, organisers of the inaugural Burley Festival, said: "I am honoured to be launching this high quality food, arts and drinks festival in such a unique location, in association with Kean Events and beside the prestigious Burley Manor Hotel.

"I am confident this event will attract more people to the area where they can witness the stunning village of Burley for themselves and enjoy what it has to offer. There will be something for everyone as we have the replica car of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang to entertain the children, plus face painting and Mr Merlin, who will add a magical touch to the event. For the adults, we have live music and gin workshops from Beechcomber Gin."

The Pete Harris Blues Band, MAT9, The Vinyl Beats, plus local artists Jess Robyn, Tom Piner and Ellie Evans, will be performing at the festival.

The festival’s chosen charity is Wessex Cancer Trust and its sponsors include the Hop On Inn, W Smith & Sons, Burley Fudge. Friends of the Festival are Burley Manor, Shappen Stores and Travel Electric.