The Balstock charity music festival is finally upon us tonight, with 12 stages set to rock to the sound of more than 200 artists from this evening until Sunday.

The Comet: Bethan Lees is set to perform on the Folkstock stage at Balstock. Photo: Helen MeissnerBethan Lees is set to perform on the Folkstock stage at Balstock. Photo: Helen Meissner (Image: Archant)

There will be live music at venues including almost all of Baldock’s pubs – and taking over The White Lion in the High Street on Saturday and Sunday will be Herts-based acoustic label Folkstock Records.

Set to perform on the Folkstock stage are a whole raft of artists including Zoe Wren, who gained Radio 2 airplay last month, and Emily Mae Winters, who has found favour on Radio 2’s Folk Show.

“I’m really looking forward to coming to Balstock for the first time,” said Emily Mae.

“I’ll be alongside some fantastic folk artists on the Folkstock stage.

The Comet: Zoe Wren is set to perform on the Folkstock stage at Balstock. Photo: Helen MeissnerZoe Wren is set to perform on the Folkstock stage at Balstock. Photo: Helen Meissner (Image: Archant)

“I’ve heard really good things about this festival and the pub is beautiful.”

Returning after her Balstock debut last year is 16-year-old starlet Emma McGrath, whose music has been played on Bob Harris’ Radio 2 show.

There is also a wealth of local talent including Pete Guy, Grae J Wall, Daisy Bell, Fay Brotherhood, Ben Smith & Jimmy Brewer and St Clair.

Fans looking forward to the action include poet Grant Meaby, a regular supporter of the North Herts music scene.

The Comet: Pete Guy is set to perform on the Folkstock stage at Balstock. Photo: Helen MeissnerPete Guy is set to perform on the Folkstock stage at Balstock. Photo: Helen Meissner (Image: Archant)

“Among the fun, hustle and bustle of Balstock it is a real joy to spend some quality time at The White Lion,” he said.

“Again they’ve got two days hosted by Folkstock, where you can see and hear some of the finest folk acts around.”

Kevin Thompson, part of the team at Potton’s Performers and Pints events, also cited the Folkstock stage as one of the highlights of the charity festival.

He said: “It has something for everyone. Acoustic singer-songwriters, folk and roots music too. The Folkstock stage is known for supporting young and upcoming musicians. One of Balstock’s best kept secrets, but not for long!”

The Folkstock stage opens at 12 noon on both Saturday and Sunday.

The White Lion will have live music from the Timeless Lizards, Lunar, Boss Mule and Transmission from 7.40pm tonight.

For the full festival line up see balstock.com.