THE programme for an annual music festival in the Yorkshire Dales has been announce.

The Swaledale Festival, which celebrates its 25th anniversary this year, is described as the most remote festival in England.

Organisers say artists performing chamber, contemporary and world music have been booked to play in venues ranging from ice cream parlours and pubs to churches and fields.

Exhibitions, workshops, walks and poetry readings will also be held, between May 27 and June 12.

Philip Parr, artistic director of the festival since 2000, said: "In 25 years, Swaledale Festival has grown, probably beyond even the dreams of its visionary founders, Emma and Trevor Woolston.

"That we attract such international talent is in no small part to do with the size and beauty of the location, where this stunning Yorkshire Dale is transformed by artists, audiences and local people over 17 days.

"There is a spirit here like no other, where making music is a sublime experience, totally enhanced by the landscape, and where muddy boots and warm jumpers are the concert-going fashion of the day."

The festival will include a new musical, Sister Josephine Kicks the Habit, by the late Jake Thackray, and Ian McMillan.

For full details of the festaival, visit www.swaledalefestival.org.uk