MUSIC fans will be dancing in the moonlight when Toploader headline a festival in Swanage.

Music By The Sea takes place in the Prince Albert Gardens on September 2, in memory of Henry Searle and William Paddy, two Swanage residents who sadly passed away in recent years.

Henry passed away in April 2021 at the age of 25 after being diagnosed with brain cancer, while William died in 2019.

Toploader frontman, Joe Washburn, said he ‘can’t wait’ to take to the stage at Music By The Sea, which raises money for wellbeing charities #WillDoes and Cancare, set up in memory of William and Henry respectively.

“We are really looking forward to playing at Dorset’s Music by the Sea Festival in Swanage,” Joe said.

“It’s such a fantastic festival with a great family vibe and incredible food and drink stalls.

“We love the festivals where there’s more than a hot dog stand and it’s more about the whole ambience – the crowd really gets behind you. If you have never been to this before, come along – you won’t be disappointed.”

Music By The Sea takes place in the Prince Albert Gardens, Swanage. Picture: Google

Toploader, formed in 1997, achieved worldwide success on the back of hit Dancing in The Moonlight and are expected to bring in a crowd of around 2,000 at the Swanage show.

Also on the bill are Dorset indie rockers Galaxy Thief, as well as a host of food and drink stalls including Mermaid Gin (The Isle of Wight Distillery), The Salt Pig Too, Purbeck Cider and the award-winning Purbeck Ice Cream.

Founder of #Willdoes and mum of Will, Lesley Paddy, and Vicki Searles, mum of Henry said: “Both charities are thrilled to have such a prestigious band headline at the festival and support such great causes.

“We really think this will be the year that brings in a great crowd and puts Swanage on the festival map.”

Music by the Sea runs from 11am to 9pm on September 2. Entry costs £15 for adults in postcode areas BH19/20, £20 all others. Children are free under 14.

For more information and to buy tickets, log on to www.eventbrite.co.uk and search for Music by the Sea, Swanage.