HOST families are needed to provide accommodation for performers at next year's Folk and Boat Festival in Middlewich.

Every year kind-hearted householders offer a bed for a night to band members and artists who entertain audiences at the festival.

And for the 2001 event, which takes place between June 15 and 17, residents of the town are needed to help again.

The festival's publicity officer Mhari Kelly said: "Once again we are appealing to Middlewich residents to work with us to help make the festival a success.

"We need around 40 beds. The committee knows it's a big favour to ask, but at the same time, it's not every day families are given the chance to have an international performer staying at their house.

"It can also be very rewarding to show a bit of hospitality to these people and the artists are extremely grateful.

"As you can imagine, it's difficult to find 40 beds, but if you consider that the festival brings enjoyment to around 20,000 during the weekend, it's a small price to pay."

If anyone can help they should ring Clare Holden on 01606 834410 or Mhari Kelly on 01606 737470.