A WHOLE host of entertainment has been announced by the organisers of a popular festival making its return next month.

Talks, tours, workshops and theatrical displays are just some of the fun on offer at the 15th Harwich International Shanty Festival.

Once more the streets of the historic town will reverberate with music and song during the weekend’s festivities from October 8 to 10 focusing on the theme of the Mayflower.

Shanties and sea songs will be heard throughout the occasion as the town steeped in rich maritime heritage celebrates its history during the largely free event.

Those in attendance will witness pirates, soldiers and other weird and wonderful characters roaming the streets while theatrical performances recounting historic tales can be found at the Redoubt Fort.

Other theatrical events include River Rogues Pirates and the King’s German Artillery who will also appear at the Redoubt but will also be having a skirmish on the beach.

Read more:

There will also be a living history camp and maritime crafts, as well as an special themed shanty train running between Harwich and Manningtree.

Among the exciting variety of tours and talks are guided trips of the Redoubt and Old Harwich, as well as of Captain Jones’ house by members of the Harwich Society.

On Friday, October 8 there will be talks at the new Harwich Museum exploring Tudor Harwich and its hidden history during a booming period in the town.

At the museum on October 9 there will be an illustrated talk by David Whittle on Napoleonic Harwich, and an entertaining talk interspersed with Shanties by the renowned Kimber’s Men titled Days of Sail.

There is also a talk by Andy Schooler on Christopher Jones and the Mayflower at St Nicholas’ Church.

The popular Bones Workshops continues with Hans Weehuizen visiting again from the Netherlands and instructing participants in playing the traditional maritime percussion instrument.

Impressive ships the Excelsior and Victor will again be moored on the Ha’Penny Pier.

Shanty singing and other events will be happening on board throughout the event.

For full details of all events, and to buy advance tickets, visit www.harwichshantyfestival.co.uk.