THIS year's Middlewich Folk and Boat Festival is opening its doors to local businesses and offering the opportunity to advertise at the event.

Businesses in the area are being invited to advertise in specially prepared areas at the civic hall during the festival with the hall being available during the afternoon of Saturday, June 15 from 12 noon until 6pm.

Companies can also use the event to raise funds by hiring stalls on the main field at a cost of just £15.

Application forms for stalls and more details about advertising in the civic hall are available from Stephen Dent, chairman of the festival, by ringing 01606 834575 or by e-mailing Stephen@ndent.freeserve.co.uk.