Festival tickets go on sale

THE Saddleworth Festival of the Arts box office is now open for business.

Backed by 54 years of history, the unique festival is back with a bang this year with a galaxy of stars and attractions among the line-up.

They include comedy legend Barry Cryer, BBC newsman George Alagiah and a talk by Countryfile presenter Julia Bradbury.

The ticket office, at the civic hall in Uppermill, is open on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, from 2pm-4pm.

Tickets can also be purchased from 6pm-8pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9am-noon on Saturdays and 2pm-4pm on Sundays. A revamped website, www.saddleworthfestival.org.uk, features a full list of events and allows online ticket purchases.