Scott Matthews

Among those taking to the stage at The Big Session, which takes place from Friday 15 to Sunday 17 June, are singer-songwriters Dan Whitehouse, Chris Tye and Boat To Row, plus Wolverhampton’s own globe-trotting troubadour, Scott Matthews.

Dan Whitehouse

They’ll be joining a varied line-up of major names including festival co-founders and three-times BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards 2012 winners Oysterband, former Fairground Attraction singer Eddi Reader, the legendary June Tabor, West Country acoustic roots duo Show Of Hands, fresh from headlining London’s Royal Albert Hall, tubthumping folk/punksters Chumbawamba, plus the much lauded Leisure Society.

Taking place in the picturesque grounds of Catton Hall, in South Derbyshire, the three day event also boasts its own Real Ale and Cider Festival, an onsite Sculpture Village (complete with a working forge and chain-saw wood carving), impromptu music and singing sessions, morning yoga, on-site luxury camping and a rolling programme of family-friendly activities.

A spokesperson for The Big Session said: “Over the last seven years, the festival has built a great reputation as a welcoming and enjoyable festival with a broad appeal, and that’s something we’re very proud of.

“While we certainly attract big names, we also showcase some fantastic new talent too, making this a festival that is very much rooted in the Midlands.”

The Big Session Festival, Catton Hall,15-17 June, 2012 South Derbyshire

Three-day/weekend tickets begin at £92.95, one day tickets from £32.95 per day (including all fees). Child tickets begin at £10 per day, with under 5s free. Camping is also available.

For more information, including tickets, see: www.bigsessionfestival.com or call 023 8071 1818.