PLANS are underway for the fourth annual Yorkshire Cajun and Zydeco Festival in Malton – one of the biggest in Europe.

Held at the Milton Rooms, the event has become recognised throughout the UK and Europe as one of the leading festivals outside the US to feature the music, dance and food of South West Louisiana.

Glyn Roberts, one of the organisers, said that after the success of last year’s Mardi Gras Sunday, the 2015 festival would keep the theme all weekend.

“The Milton Rooms will be decorated for the whole weekend and for the first time the festival will coincide with the monthly food market in Malton and will incorporate a Cajun/Creole food demonstration and a parade of costumes and masks in the Market Place,” he said.

“The festival will include dance and instrument workshops, as well as music sessions at various venues in the town, while centre stage, of course, will be the live bands from all over the UK and from Europe.”

Chris said the full line-up would be confirmed soon, but already booked to return are The Bluebell Cajun Dance Band, Rough Chowder and making their UK debut, from France La Gang du Queteux.

“Plus, there will be dancing on Yorkshire’s biggest sprung floor – a truly great music and dance experience,” he said.

Chris said that the organisers were a group of not for profit enthusiasts.

“We have been involved in promoting Cajun and Zydeco music and dance in the Ryedale area for nearly 25 years,” he said.

“In fact, ever since the legendary Buttermountain Boys, based in Malton, first burst on to the streets of York busking this amazing music to a totally unsuspecting public.

“This year’s event promises to be our biggest and best festival yet.”

The festival takes place from March 13 to 15. For more information, visit yorkshirecajun.com