* IT’S the first real festival of the summer, so it’s only right that it should be the latest vaguely local event to unveil the bulk of its line-up for next year.

Sir Bob Geldof’s Boomtown Rats, Craig Charles and You to Me are Everything stars The Real Thing are among the first tranche of bands announced for 2014’s Wychwood Festival.

Organised by a team in Witney, Wychwood actually takes place along the A40 at Cheltenham Racecourse but maintains some Oxfordshire flavour with a good showing of local bands – many selected by local radio show BBC Oxford Introducing. Other artists gracing next year’s bill include modern folk-rock band Merry Hell and cross-genre four-piece Polly and the Billets Doux.

Next year’s event will be the festival’s tenth. Festival Director Graeme Merjava says: “The last nine years have seen Wychwood Festival blossom into a truly wonderful three-day spectacle enjoyed by thousands of revellers from across the UK and beyond. This coming year promises to be the best yet with a programme that is shaping up to be something extra special. “We cannot wait to see you in 2014 to help us celebrate in true Wychwood style!" Craig Charles, a previous festival favourite, has also pitched in with his congratulations to the green/ left-leaning family-friendly gathering. He said: "I’m double happy to be returning to Wychwood festival to celebrate its 10th Birthday with them. Roll on the summer and lets blow the roof off!!" The announcement follows news from Cropredy that Fairport Convention’s gathering in the village, near Banbury, next year will boast an even stranger line-up, in the shape of Marillion, Al Stewart and Chas & Dave.

Wychwood Festival runs from May 30 to June 1. For discounted tickets and further information, go to wychwoodfestival.com

* JOIN singer Niamh McNally for an evening of jazz, soul and pop at the Waggon & Horses in Culham tomorrow night.

Niamh’s distinctive voice, coupled with her reputation for proficiency, has led to her working around the globe with artists including Brian May, Leon Russell, Ronan Keating, Gilbert O’Sullivan, and Marina and the Diamonds. Tomorrow she will accompanied by pianist Tim Lapthorn and Tim Dawes on double bass at the pub in Abingdon Road from 9pm.

Call 01235 525012 for details.

* ONE of Oxford’s very best singer-songwriters, loveable tattooed rogue Chris Ryder, pitches up guitar in hand at the Port Mahon tonight. The native Brummy’s headline slot will give fans and admirers (for there are many) a chance to hear his back catalogue for possibly the last time as a solo artist. Rumour has it, he is about to embark on the next stage of his career apart of a band.

Chris plays the Port Mahon, St Clement’s, Oxford, tonight. Doors 7pm. Tickets are £5 on the door.