The line-up for this year’s Loughton Festival has officially be announced.

The annual month-long event this summer is expected to draw thousands of people across the country to celebrate historic residents and activities within the town.

Tina T from BBC’s All Together will be giving an exclusive performance and jazz singer Roy Hamilton will be returning again following his festival debut last year.

Founder of Loughton Festival Sue Taylor, was inspired to set up annual event back in 2007 after attending Hay Festival in Wales.

She said: “I said to someone, why can’t we do that? and I have been running it ever since.

“We try make as many of our events free as possible, our big events are going to be David Stephenson’s half-day school, he has such a following its untrue which will be on June 15 and also on the same day The Hairy Quizzers host an interactive quiz to raise money for charity.”

Originally set out as a small weekend event celebrating Loughton writers such as John Tennyson and John Clare, the event has expanded into numerous workshops.

Epping Forest College will be kicking off this years event by hosting a family fun day and taster day for potential students and all free of charge Saturday, May 25.

Firm favourite social historian Professor David Stevenson will be giving two talks this year including life in 1919 after the First World War.

The main charity we are raising money for this year is Accuro, said Mrs Taylor. “They are an amazing group who not only support children and adults with physical and learning disabilities but also support the families as well is the chosen charity for this year they also support the families as well.”

All run on volunteers, Mrs Taylor is seeking as many people to help run the activities planned out from tea making to setting up stalls.

Loughton Festival will begin on Friday, May 25 and conclude on Jessel Green Day in June.

If you would like to help, please contact info@loughtonfestival.org or call 020 8508 2512.