One of Southwold's most exciting and eclectic events is just around the corner.

Southwold Arts Festival is in its fifth year and will start on Saturday, June 23 at 11.45am and will run until Saturday, June 30.

The program includes national and international artists to entertain the audience, as well as a diverse range of classical, folk and jazz music, including the angelic voices of the vocal ensemble Seraphim.

Each day there will be well known speakers who will provide talks including the Archers and Dr Who actor Terry Molloy, and the BBC reporter and former royal correspondent Michael Cole.

Author Sophia Kingshill will provide a talk about the folklore and legend of East Anglia, including the apparition of a Southwold woman, who visitors will discover had a very special reason for shouting out to sea.

Comedy will include the much acclaimed portrayal of Kenneth Williams by Colin Elmer, telling the story of one of Britain's best loved comedy actors.

Later in the week the legendary comedy writer Barry Cryer will provide a wonderful selection of songs, stories and anecdotes, accompanied on the piano by Colin Sell. Each lunchtime throughout the week, the festival will feature the 'Young Musician's Showcases' with some of the most talented, and classically trained young musicians in the country.

However, the festival will kick off with a magnificent free street parade based on the them of 'the sea', including marching bands, street entertainers, stalls, and music and dance.

Alongside the parade there will be Punch and Judy, the Wrentham Band and performances from St Felix School pupils, with children, groups and individuals to dress up in costumes to suit the occasion.

Lin Le Versha, festival director, said: 'It is a very special day for Southwold and the surrounding area, and we invite everyone to come along and enjoy this wonderful festival experience.

'The opening day is very much a happy family event and we especially welcome children who will enjoy the colour, excitement and spectacle of the street parade. The best costumes will receive prizes.'

The festival finale concert on June 30 will feature the internationally celebrated singer Mica Paris, whose diverse vocal range and stylish performance will include soul, jazz and contemporary music.

The Festival Brochure listing all the events is now available from the box office and is also online at: www.southwoldartsfestival.co.uk