ORGANISERS at Goosfest are bracing themselves for a record-breaking festival as the first of 25 events gets underway tomorrow, Friday.

Almost three quarters of all tickets have been sold, with some events fully sold out for the annual Goostrey celebration, which runs until October 21.

Entertainment across the fortnight includes music, lectures, workshops and arts, with comedian, writer and broadcaster Arthur Smith providing a headline act packed with jokes, stories, poems and songs at Terra Nova School on Saturday, October 7.

Other headline acts include the Halle Brass on October 8, renowned jazz duo Martin Taylor and Alison Burns performing ‘Ella Fitzgerald at 100’ on October 14, and singer Judie Tzuke on October 21.

The Arts Weekend, curated by local artist Katja Murta-Bisse, will take place at Orchards Farm in Twemlow this weekend, October 7 and 8, and will include an eclectic mix of displays, workshops, music, drama and poetry.

One of the organisers Bill Ollier said: “We are delighted with ticket sales to date but there are still plenty of opportunities for people to see real quality performances right on their doorstep.

“We aim to assemble a varied programme which has widespread appeal, underlining our reputation as one of the most varied music and arts festivals in the North-West.

“Goosfest is a not-for-profit organisation and we aim to keep our quality high and our ticket prices low. This is only possible through the loyal support of our regular audience, sponsors and Goostrey Parish Council.”

The number for the Goosfest Box Office is 01477 535367 and the details of the full programme are available at goosfest.com