A popular biannual festival which celebrates the arts will return in June with a new format and plenty of entertainment.

Eastern Daily Press: The Wayland Festival 2017. Picture: Wayland FestivalThe Wayland Festival 2017. Picture: Wayland Festival (Image: Archant)

The Wayland Festival has been delighting audiences for nearly 30 years with its range of performers, from tribute bands to comedians.

It had been held over one week in October but due to concerns raised by members of the community the event has a new date and will take place over three action packed days.

Richard Denempont, Wayland Festival committee member, said: 'In 2015 we found a lot of the pensioners were very reluctant to come for an evening performance because they were fearful of having to go home in the dark.

'In order to rectify this we took the decision to put the festival on in the summer. By bringing the festival down by a couple of days it means we have more money to spend on the artists.'

The event will be held from Thursday June, 8 until Saturday, June 10 at the Queens Hall in Watton.

Among the treats will be Alex the clown who will bring humour and silliness to the festival on the Saturday.

Born and raised in Watton, Alex Morley began his circus career at Melsop Farm Park in Scoulton 10 years ago and is now a circus director.

Tickets to the much-loved local man's Children's Festival party are free for children.

Accomplished Norfolk-based musicians Four4 jazz and Perfect Vintage - who will charm the audience with songs from the 1950s - will also perform.

Exciting entertainer Doug Segal will wow the audience with his combination of comedy and mind reading and mind control skills.

And bringing an end to the festivities will be Queen tribute band Queen II who are sure to rock the Queens Hall to its foundations.

Mr Denempont believes the Queen act is one of the biggest bands to play in the town since Unit 4 Plus 2 - known for their number one single Concrete & Clay - played in 1965.

He said: 'We aim to bring some life into Watton. The three days are totally different for us.

'The beauty of the tribute act is everybody knows Queen.'

For more information about the acts, times and for tickets click here or visit the Wattong and Wayland Tourist Information centre or Wayland House.