AN ACTRESS from Downton Abbey will join the festivities as the Maldon Festival begins this weekend.

Di Botcher, whose acting credits include Nanny West in Downton Abbey Series Four, Aunty Brenda in the Sky series Stella, and Debbie Allinson in ITV’s Coronation Street, will appear as one of the speakers in Walton’s Façade.

Walton’s Façade is an entertainment for speakers and small orchestra, which will also feature the New London Chamber Ensemble, will take place in St Mary’s Church on Saturday July 2.

When it first performed last year, Walton’s Façade went down a storm with audiences and has since developed into a firm favourite with audiences.

It is one of the main events during the two week festival, which is now in its ninth year. It is hosting a variety of events including the Blunderbus Children’s Theatre’s performance of My Pet Monster and Me in Maldon Methodist Church on Sunday July 3.

Also playing at the festival is the Sarah Gordon Memorial Concert on Wednesday June 29 at 7.30pm at the church, featuring Marta Kowalczyk on the violin and Somi Kim on the piano.

Sarah Gordon was a well-known figure in Maldon life and a founder member of the Maldon Festival committee. Sadly, she lost her battle with cancer at the end of last year.

The concert, sponsored by Kirckman Concert Society, which she administered for many years, is a perfect reflection of Sarah's passions and interests and a fitting memorial.

The festival also includes a performance of Shakespeare in Song from Colin Brady and Christopher Weston, showcasing the more well-known compositions from English artists as well as lesser knowns from French and German Composers.

The festival begins this Saturday with The Fairy Queen; a version of Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night's Dream. The performance takes place in the Promenade Park Amphitheatre and starts at 6pm.

It includes a picnic interval and has been specially arranged to continue the tradition of open air opera established over many years by Opera in the Orchard. There will be beer tents, a Pimms and Prosecco bar and Picnics available to purchase provided by Tiptree Tea Rooms.

Full programme details and ticketing information can be found at www.maldonarts.org.uk or via Maldon Tourist Office on 01621 856503.