A new scheme has been launched just two weeks before Sidmouth Folk Festival's 70th event.

The Friends of the Sidmouth Folk Festival scheme, introduced by the Sidmouth Folk Festival Charity, invites residents, festival goers and supporters to form part of the group.

Derek Schofield, chair of the Sidmouth Folk Festival Charity, described the significant anniversary as the perfect time to begin the Friends.

He said: "Many Festival goers return to Sidmouth year after year.

"Many friendships are made, renewed and refreshed by coming together to enjoy the music and dance.

"Joining the Friends will help to secure the festival for many years to come.

"The festival has been privileged to enjoy the town of Sidmouth during the first week in August for seventy years.

"I know a great many local residents support and enjoy the Festival and they are especially welcome to join the Friends."

Anyone can easily join the scheme by donating a minimal monthly fee of £3 via the Support Us section on the festival's website.

To publicise the new scheme, a Friends postcard is available as a reminder to Festival goers to sign up for the new scheme.

The festival runs from August 2 to August 9, 2024.