A SUMMER Strum Festival in aid of Wirral charities takes place next place month. 

Now in its third year and organised by Wirral Ukulele Orchestra it takes place at Hoylake Rugby Club on July 8-9, starting at midday, and promises to be bigger and better. 

Bands from as far away as Sweden will congregate at the venue in Carham Road, Hoylake to entertain for free in the name of the ukulele!

All raffle proceeds and any profits will be split between Wirral Hospice St John's and MIND.

Emma Owen, one of the Festival's main organisers, told the Globe: "The underlying ethos of the festival is to promote wellbeing in the community.

"Everybody is encouraged to pick up an instrument, to talk to ukulele players – and just maybe be inspired to join a group and discover the feel-good factor of the ukulele.

"Thanks to fundraising endeavours by the ukulele community and the generosity of local businesses - notably Handy Scaff who provide and sponsor the main stage - the festival remains free to enter and promises something for all the family".

As well as two music stages we have camping, storytelling, face painting, food and merchandise stalls, space hoppers, great beer, workshops and more.

Emma Owen continued: "When people think of the ukulele they instantly think of George Formby.

"What our festival and all those around the world show is that the ukulele is a versatile little instrument and you can pretty much play anything on it from heavy metal to classical.

"People are always pleasantly surprised!

"Raffles held over the two days promise some truly wonderful prizes donated to us from local businesses".

For more details visit www.summerstrum.com, the facebook page: Summer Strum Hoylake or contact Pat Ross-Davies or Emma Owen at summerstrum@outlook.com