An annual celebration of rural life, farming, and the rich history of north Norfolk, returns this year with a slight twist.

North Norfolk News: Last Year's Worstead Festival. Pictures: supplied by Sam OutingLast Year's Worstead Festival. Pictures: supplied by Sam Outing (Image: Archant)

The volunteer-run Worstead Village Festival began in 1965 when it was founded to raise money to save the church.

It raises money for the festival charity's grant fund by promoting the crafts, produce and heritage of the region.

A festival spokesman said: "There will be 80 to 100 stalls selling a wide range of gifts and produce from talented local crafts people and businesses, local artisan food and drink producers.

"This year sees a gentle evolution, building on the long and successful history of the festival and the return of some festival favourites.

North Norfolk News: Norfolk Day will return for a second year. Picture: ArchantNorfolk Day will return for a second year. Picture: Archant (Image: Archant)

"There is a renewed focus on local producers, and we're engaging with the biggest issue facing us today - protecting our rural community and the environment for generations to come."

Alongside stalls, street food and bars, the festival showcases farming and rural attractions including sheep shearing, alpacas, heavy horses, birds of prey and a sheepdog display - as well as the return of the very popular terrier racing.

There will be vintage tractors, military vehicles and classic cars.

Meanwhile, children from Worstead Primary School have worked with Willow Phoenix to create a huge puppet of the festival's mascot Ram that will be paraded on the first day.

Willow Phoenix will be running arts and crafts workshops with an environmental focus and Friends of Worstead School are running fairground games.

There will be a Norfolk Rocks painting area, a farmers' market, and cookery demonstrations from the region's top chefs.

The extremely popular Made in Worstead is back, and there will be an art exhibition, horticulture and produce show Grown in Norfolk.

This year also sees the return of the infamous Lorry Stage with Pirate Joe as the headline act.

St Mary's church will host events, the Worstead Choir will perform, and visitors can also enjoy the flower festival and the Worstead Guild of Weavers, Spinners and Dyers.

The Worstead Festival weekend falls on Norfolk Day, and is open from 10am to 6pm on Saturday, July 27 and Sunday, July 28.