A FAMILY-friendly festival returns to the New Forest next month after a two-year break and will be “bigger and better” than ever, organisers say.

The three-day Burley Festival takes place at Manor Park between Friday, May 27, and Sunday, May 29, with a host of new attractions, family camping and free entry for under 10s.

Festival organiser Marianne Brown of Mojo Events said: “As ever, our aim is the same - to celebrate the very best in local food, art, drink and music.

“For locals and visitors alike, Burley Festival a jam-packed weekend of artisan produce, artistic expression and some fantastic local music talent, whether it's a day out the whole family can enjoy or an affordable weekend away in the beautiful New Forest.”

The event will see the New Forest's best artisan food and drink producers showcase their wares in Deer Street. There’s also a brand-new organic, vegan and veggie corner called the Roots Veg Patch.

Festival goers will also be able to enjoy a full menu of locally crafted ales, ciders, wines, gins and cocktails in the festival bars, the OUTside INN or the Burley local bar.

For music fans, the main Haystack Stage will host some of the area's finest jazz, blues, soul and funk bands with more acoustic sounds from the In’Tree’Ducing Stage with its old oak tree backdrop.

Behind the tree, visitors can discover the Mystic Tree area where moments of peace are guaranteed along with a “sprinkle of fairy dust”.

Younger visitors will find the Lil Scrumpers designated kids’ zone is the place to be for free workshops, storytelling and face painting, as well as trampolines and castles. Meanwhile, the Forest Craft Emporium is home to local makers offering free workshops for children and adults.

There will also be classic cars, retro clothing and Lindy Hop lessons in Va Va Vintage.

Burley Festival's chosen charity this year is Poole-based charity MyTime Young Carers.

Burley festival takes place from 6pm on May 27 and from 10am on May 28 and 29.

Well-behaved dogs on leads are welcome.

Tickets are available now at www.burleyfestival.com.