THOUSANDS of visitors are set to descend on a Hampshire village next weekend for an annual festival.

Trout ‘n About, which takes place on Sunday, August 4, brings more than 100 Hampshire producers to Stockbridge High Street along with a host of family entertainment.

It has been going since 2008 and has only grown in size, with more than 5,000 visitors last year.

This year’s event features two live music stages, in front of the Town Hall and the Co-op, children’s entertainer Juggling Jake, a farm animal petting area, craft demonstrations and vintage farm machinery.

Lucy Liddell, one of the organisers, said the festival was a boost for the local economy and also helps local organisations.

She said: “It’s very beneficial and is raising the profile of Stockbridge and the High Street shops. It’s a positive thing for us all.

“We put any profit back into the local community. Last year was the first year we managed to generate cash for local causes and we gave out around £1,500, including some to the football club and some to the scouts.”

But Ms Liddell added the festival has reached its capacity now and could not expand further without relocating, which the organisers don’t want to do.

She said: “It’s as big as it’s ever going to be unless we take it off the High Street and that’s not in our plans. I don’t think it will ever be as big as Alresford’s festival but we like the feel. Last year we had almost a carnival feel with people milling up and down the street and we hope that continues.”

The festival is sponsored by NFU Mutual and Steve’s Leaves salad company.

It starts at 10am and will be officially opened by Janet Whiteley, Mayor of Test Valley.

Free parking is provided at either end of the High Street while Friends of King Alfred Buses is providing a free ‘hop on/off’ service throughout the day.