There’s a new music festival on the scene... and it’s small, local, very friendly and is all for a great cause.

Taking place at Waterperry Gardens, near Wheatley on June 23, it is called Midsummer Picnic and Music Festival – and pretty much does what it says on the tin.

Acts so far confirmed include The Shapes, Peerless Pirates and Beware this Boy, with more acts lined-up to play.

A self-styled mini-festival, it will be staged in Waterperry’s amphitheatre, with proceeds to be donated to Helen & Douglas House hospice.

Starting at 6.30pm, it will feature four hours of live music with tickets costing £10 in advance through the event online ticket office.

Organiser Simon Meakin says: “I have been aware of Helen & Douglas House for a number of years and the amazing care they provide.

"I was saddened to hear how difficult it had been to raise funds, so thought it would be great to try to help out.

“I play in a band and know a number of local bands. Oxford has a brilliant music scene and I had been talking to Waterperry about using their fantastic little amphitheatre for a while anyway, so it all sort of came together in my mind.

“Waterperry said we could use the theatre, The Shapes and Peerless Pirates generously agreed to join the effort and now, having sold the first few tickets there is no going back.

“We are hoping to sell around 250 tickets and everyone is invited to come along with their picnics and sit in the beautiful Oxfordshire countryside to enjoy four hours of live music.

“It will be a festival by the people of Oxford for the people of Oxford.

“We intend to organise raffles and hope that local businesses might be generous enough to provide some the prizes. I am really hoping it will be the first of many.”

He urged sponsors and volunteers to get involved in the inaugural event.

He added: “Bring along your own food and drink and enjoy the best music that Oxfords own can offer – all in a beautiful setting.”

Tickets from eventbrite.com