THE first acts for this year’s Fringe by the Sea in North Berwick can today be revealed by the Courier.

This year’s festival opens on August 7 and runs until August 16.

Headlining the opening night are Basement Jaxx, the chart-topping electronic dance duo made up of Felix Buxton and Simon Ratcliffe.

American singer/songwriter Candi Staton, whose hits include Young Hearts Run Free, and Stornoway folk rockers Peat and Diesel will perform on August 14. Also confirmed are Huey Morgan, frontman of the Fun Lovin’ Criminals (August 15); hip-hop musicians Dat Brass; and The Blues Band, who take to the stage on August 12.

Most of the entertainment will be held in the harbour area, with plenty of other events taking place throughout the town.

North Berwick Fry will be hosting a number of music events, providing entertainment to those enjoying a fish supper.

There will be about 160 events at Fringe by the Sea this year. As well as musical performances there will be comedy, author talks, a kids’ zone, arts and crafts, music workshops, open mic sessions, wellbeing and yoga, guided walks, wild swimming, art exhibitions, street performers and plenty of local food stalls.

Fringe by the Sea will be working closely with its community partners, including the Scottish Seabird Centre and NB Movies.

Jackie Shuttleworth, programme manager, said: “We’re really pleased to have secured these artists to kickstart the festival programme.

“Over the next few months, we will be adding dozens more acts to the line-up for Fringe by the Sea, which is now a firm fixture in the Scottish festival scene.

“As a not-for-profit organisation, we rely on the generous support of our funders and sponsors to help make the festival happen. We say a big thank you to those who’ve committed their support and we are thrilled to welcome on board Mactaggart & Mickel as master sponsor.

“Their support will help us deliver an extra special festival experience for our 25,000 visitors.”

Tickets, available by clicking here, go on sale today (Thursday).