Top artists in WOMAD finale

2:56pm Wednesday 28th May 2008

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WOMAD will close this year with a grand finale involving some of the top artists gathering on the main stage.

Although the details of the finale have not been confirmed fans can expect a musical feast with a line-up that includes Boy George, Squeeze, Finley Quaye and Eddy Grant.

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With Bill Cobham as musical director, Justin Adams as band leader and Bassekou Kouyate as a main soloist, the festival's outdoor stage will present the ninety minute Gala Finale from 9.30 p.m. until 11.00 pm on the last night.

The central players will be joined on stage by many guest artists in what is being hailed as a unique festival moment.

Event Director Chris Smith said: "WOMAD has always been about diversity, discovery and surprises and this year we predict all three."

Although torrential rain caused problems at last year's festival the organisers have made changes to make sure it doesn't happen again: " We have new traffic management structure in place which is being agreed with Wiltshire police and Wiltshire County Council Highways department," said Mr Smith "We are confident the problems of 2007 were down to the weather, however we have planned for the same scenario."

WOMAD is already underway all over the world and this year's international festival, which celebrates world music, got off to a lively start in Australia and New Zealand in March.

The UK event is set to run from July 25 to 27 should pull in a 30,000 strong crowd to Charlton Park, near Malmesbury.

Fans that manage to pause for one moment can enjoy a World of Wellbeing, where massages can take away your aches and pains from dancing.

A Taste the World tent will then give people the chance to experience food cooked by the artists.

Mud and a spartan tent can also be exchanged this year for a touch of luxury after the organisers announced boutique camping.

For details of the festival or to buy tickets visit www. womad. org or call 0845 146 1735.