British urban pioneer Roots Manuva has been confirmed as the Saturday night headline act for this year’s Lounge On The Farm festival on July 11.

Inspired by the innovation shown by Glastonbury last year, when rapper Jay Z wowed thousands on the Pyramid Stage, Lounge On The Farm have plumped for the hip-hop connection.

Organiser Matt Gough believes Roots Manuva, real name Rodney Smith, will be a huge success.

He said: "If Glastonbury can do it, why can’t we?"

"This is the head honcho of UK hip-hop as far as we’re concerned, and he’s going to blow the roof off the Cowshed on Saturday night."

Roots Manuva will fly into Canterbury as part of a busy few weeks on the festival scene, which also sees him taking in the Jazz World Stage on the Sunday at Glastonbury on June 28, as well as a European tour visiting Germany, Norway and Belgium.

His latest and fourth studio album, Slime And Reason, showcases his talent for combining hip-hop, with dub and reggae, a style that has paved the way for the likes of Dizzee Rascal and Wiley to break through to the mainstream.

Matt Gough believes his performance will be one for all to enjoy.

He added: "We always wanted an artist who’s got a good back catalogue behind them, and someone who’ll create a cracking Saturday night carnival vibe.

"Not only does Roots Manuva have some cracking albums under his belt, but also a wicked live show."

The Festival, at Merton Farm, runs from Friday, July 10 to Sunday, July 12. For the full line-up and ticket information, visit the festival website at www.loungeonthefarm.co.uk