THE CHALKE Valley History Festival is on the move, but remaining within the Chalke Valley.

The week-long event, which since its inception had made its home at Ebbesbourne Wake, is transferring to Church Bottom in Broad Chalke for 2017.

The festival, which over the years has seen major authors, politicians and people who have played their part in history recount and describe major moments from past world events, was affected by torrential rain last year making the drive out difficult for some visitors.

Programme Director James Holland said: "We're obviously sad to be leaving Ebbesbourne Wake, but Church Bottom is also an absolutely stunning spot and still in the heart of the Chalke Valley, two factors we believe are of vital importance."

He said the new site is a hidden gem, but with good access points.

He added: "It is well away from the village of Broad Chalke and so noise from the festival should not greatly impact villagers. It is also closer to Salisbury and has improved roads leading to it."

He said the directors of the Daily Mail backed event were grateful to Tommy and Elli Hooper, the owners of Manor Farm, Ebbesbourne Wake, for helping them to set and up and grow the festival. They also thanked the new hosts Richard and Katie Jowett and Christo Jowett.