'Poshstock' ready to attract crowds; Everyone from Sugababes to The Damned will play diverse, friendly festival.

AFARMERS' market with a dancefloor, a county fayre with a rock 'n' roll twist - just two of Hugh Phillimore's favourite descriptions of the Cornbury Festival which he launched in 2004 and which takes place this year on July 11-12 at Cornbury Park, Charlbury, Oxfordshire.

Posts on the festival's website are already raving about the booking of classic artist Joe Jackson, along with the live performance expected by the Sugababes, who are due to headline the festival on the Sunday.

The Pretenders will be making a welcome return and Hugh is particularly excited about Magic Numbers, while he has secured the Britnominated Scouting For Girls to bee top act on the Saturday.

"There aren't any festivals in the UK that could mix Sugababes with The Damned! We're very proud of our musical diversity and family friendly ethos" says Hugh, who finally got his own way this year when it was confirmed that over- 70s, as well as under-fives, would be allowed in for free. "I think it's right that grandparents should be able to take their grandchildren for a fabulous free weekend" he says.

Cornbury Park has been the site of a festival for centuries, drawing crowds of 40,000 in the mid-19th century. In reviving the festival five years ago, Hugh believed he could marry the traditional qualities of the great English country -house garden party with elements of the modern rock festival..

As a result, locals, celebrities and hardened festival-goers pour through the iron gates of what was a royal hunting lodge to 'Poshstock' as it was dubbed recently.

This year the VIP tickets will be more exclusive, with the number available cut to a mere 1000. "Last year, we sold 2000 so if you want one, you'll have to be quick" says Hugh. A VIP weekend ticket costs pounds 175 against pounds 90 standard while a VIP day ticket costs pounds 100 (pounds 55 standard).

Campers can bring their own tent or choose from an eclectic array of bell tents, pod pads or yurts.

Crowded House were amazed last year at the lack of barriers between stage and crowd. As vocalist Neil Finn observed: "My hat's off to you for being so human in bringing people to a field in the middle of England".

For more information, visit www.cornburyfestival.com or call the credit card hotline on 0871 472 0420..

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Teepees seen at last year's Cornbury Festival, Oxfordshire.