JONATHAN REDHEAD Most weekends, Somerleyton is the quintessentially English village. But from this morning until Monday, it will see into something "weird, wonderful and a bit quirky" in the form of a second major festival in north Suffolk in quick succession.

JONATHAN REDHEAD

Most weekends, Somerleyton is the quintessentially English village.

But from this morning until Monday, it will see into something “weird, wonderful and a bit quirky” in the form of a second major festival in north Suffolk in quick succession.

Following the success of last weekend's Latitude Festival at Henham, near Southwold, organisers of the Eastern Haze Festival, which kicks off at 9am, are promising something for all the family.

The three-day festival is being hosted by the Hon Hugh Crossley, son of Lord Somerleyton, at the family's Somerleyton Hall home.

Featuring 1970s rockers Hawkwind, former Glastonbury openers Dreadzone and Senser, who have supported the Red Hot Chili Peppers, the festival will have a total of five music stages.

Senser play today, Hawkwind tomorrow and Dreadzone on Sunday, with music running on all stages from 11am to 11pm.

A wide range of local bands are also set to feature including club/dance and hip-hop acts, acoustic performers, and reggae sounds.

But aside from the music there is plenty more on offer from the festival which is hoping to attract more than 10,000 people.

There is a large healing and holistic area with workshops and taster sessions and an extensive children's area including the Circus Ricardo.

Other highlights include the 4ft chocolate fountain, five giant inflatable assault courses, and films in the alternatively powered Pixie Pictures Geodesic Dome.

Other highlights include a range of traditional funfair rides and side stalls and holistic attractions including meditation, chanting and storytelling.

Completing the final preparations yesterday, Seb Fosdal, from event organisers Hazy Promotions, said things were “hectic”.

“It's all happening. Things are being put up all the time,” he said.

“Ticket sales are pretty good and I think it's going to be a great weekend.”

Anyone visiting the festival is encouraged to camp for the weekend.

Weekend tickets are £45 on the gate with free camping.

Tickets for Saturday and Sunday are £35 and Sunday alone is £25. Telephone 08700 600100 for more details.