The first group of acts performing at this year’s Lounge On The Farm music festival have been confirmed.

The three-day mix of music, entertainment and local food and drink returns to Merton Farm, Canterbury, from Friday, July 10, to Sunday, July 12.

Among the first batch of names on the bill are acts behind and inspired by The Canterbury Sound of the 1960s and 1970s.

Gong, The Steve Hillage Band and The James Taylor Quartet will all be making appearances on The Furthur Stage.

Other names already confirmed include Mr Scruff, who is set to play a marathon six hour DJ set, while DJ Format returns, following his highly popular old school funk set at last year’s festival.

Organiser Matt Gough says this year’s line up looks set to be one of the best yet.

“We’re currently talking to some huge acts to headline The Cowshed Stage and we’re hopeful of confirming who they’ll be in about a month’s time.

“Perhaps what we’re most chuffed about is the return of The Canterbury Sound, with bands like Gong and The Steve Hillage Band, which is absolutely fantastic.

“Gong were one of the first affiliated bands to Canterbury in the early seventies, when the city was possibly the most famous in the world as a hot-bed for prog rock.”

Listen: hear Matt Gough talking to Adam Williams about the line-up >>>

Some of the best new and up and coming acts on the bill include hip-hop duo Dan Le Sac vs Scroobius Pip, as well as guitar bands The Invisible and Wild Beasts.

Earlybird ticket sales are up 100 per cent on last year. A small number are still available, with prices ranging from £65 per adult for the weekend and £85, including camping.

•Click here for ticket information and more details