David Evans, Jillian, Viola, DK Funk and others for third Roots & Branches Festival 'Walk The Talk'

THE THIRD Roots & Branches Festival 'Walk The Talk' at Dudley Castle on 3rd-5th July has a special multi-cultural emphasis this year "providing an opportunity for Christians across cultures and colours to explore their common unity." So far booked are R&B duo Carrie And David Grant (subject to contract); Australia's David Evans; worship man Pete Caulfield with the Norman Barratt Band; American singer Jillian; Sweden's Viola; zany comedy duo Rodd And Marco; indie pop team Audacity; US Bible teacher Tom Brock; popular Midlanders DKF (now called DK Funk); AOR journeymen After The Fall; Americans Tony Loeffler And The Blue Angels; and three grassroots black gospel acts Hutchinson & Gayle, 4 Real and Nu Life.

Also on offer is a bouncy castle; arts; juggling; a dance workshop; escapology; and cultural food. Said the event's co-ordinator Jonathan Bellamy, "This event is a real opportunity for the church community in the West Midlands area to work together for a common vision of seeing Christ raised. After two hard years of birthing the event in Dudley we feel the event needs to be established this year in the local community. We would encourage all Christians in the West Midlands to show their support for the event."