THE highlight of Redditch’s social calendar, Morton Stanley Festival, returns to the town this August with something for everyone.

International headline acts complement local talent and a family fun zone caps a wide array of entertainment at this year’s fun-filled free and family-friendly festival on Saturday and Sunday, August 17-18.

Councillor Phil Mould, whose portfolio covers leisure and tourism, said: “Morton Stanley Festival has been growing in popularity over the years and now there are events, performances and activities to suit everyone, providing opportunities for everything from party rocking to family picnics. The line up this year is strong so don’t miss out.”

This year’s main events are internationally-acclaimed French circus La Famille Goldoni, visiting Redditch on their short UK tour, the South American sounds of Los Chinches and classy Cambridge folk act Ezio.

And as in previous years, the Saturday night is set aside for local bands to rock the stage in usual Morton Stanley fashion.

All in all 17 hours of stage performances are due, including from local bands the Redditch Rock Choir, Kerala Community Association, Stakeout and more.

A wide array of stalls and activities will also take place across the whole weekend including Wilson’s Fair, a variety of food and drink, craft stalls, circusMASH trapeze workshops, and of course the family fun zone which is run by local community groups.

Ample car parking at the festival is available via Green Lane. Please note this is not the normal park car park at Morton Stanley Park, which is required for event crews. Roads will be signed for the festival.

For more details see www.redditchbc.gov.uk or search for Morton Stanley Festival 2013 on Facebook. It is free to attend the festival.