Singer Sophie Ellis-Bextor and pop band The Feeling are set to headline this year's Canterbury Festival.

The Feeling, who had a top 10 hit with Fill My Little World will play the Marlowe Theatre on their first tour in more than two years.

They’ll be followed by Brit Award-nominated Ellis-Bextor, who will be performing her greatest hits accompanied by a full band and string section.

Country music sensations The Shires will also be bringing their pop-infused new album to the festival.

This year will see the return of a fascinating series of talks, with radio presenter John Suchet, historian David Starkey, broadcaster Alice Roberts, Blue Planet wildlife cameraman Doug Warner, and ‘Angry Chef’ Anthony Warner and many more bringing their unique expertise for us to enjoy.

Riotous knock-about clowns Släpstick bring their music hall-style to the Festival, tipping a nostalgic wink to Charlie Chaplin with a modern twist.

Comedians Seann Walsh and Simon Evans will have audiences rolling in the aisles.

The Festival Spiegeltent returns with circus sensations Barely Methodical Troupe, cabaret superstars Le Gateau Chocolat and Lady Luck Cabaret and brilliant saxophonist, YolanDa Brown.

A family friendly programme of dance, music, story-telling and acrobatics will be accompanied by free Arts Award workshops.

Throughout the festival, the next generation of young local musicians perform in lunchtime school concerts in the Spiegeltent; while Canterbury Christ Church University presents a series of concerts at St Gregory’s Centre for Music.

The spotlight remains on local talent with Made in Kent, which continues to celebrate and develop gifted local performers.

Made in Kent: Dance will showcase three local choreographers.

Winners of Made in Kent: Theatre, Canterbury Academy’s Everest Theatre Groups, will be performing T R A V E L E R.

Made in Kent: Comedy will see finalists perform in front of a live Festival audience, and Track Record will showcase local bands, giving them support and career development opportunities.

The Festival runs from October 20 to November 3.

Tickets go on general sale on July 30. To book visit canterburyfestival.co.uk or call the Festival box office on 01227 787787.