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Top line-up to play at The Social dance music festival when it returns to Maidstone's Mote Park.

00:00, 30 July 2014

updated: 12:28, 30 July 2014

Homegrown talent will get the chance to shine alongside an impressive line-up of international acts.

More than 10 performers from across Kent, with the majority based in Maidstone, have been booked to appear at The Social in Mote Park.

The dance music festival, which was launched last year, will return to the site on Saturday, September 13, with a bill of world-famous DJs, including Carl Cox and organiser Nic Fanciulli, who grew up in the town and now lives in West Malling.

Organiser Nic Fanciulli (left) with Seth Troxler. Both will perform at The Social in September.
Organiser Nic Fanciulli (left) with Seth Troxler. Both will perform at The Social in September.

Mr Fanciulli, a former St Simon Stock pupil, has set aside one of the three arenas for the local musicians.

The producer and owner of Saved Records said: “Local acts are an integral part of any show we do. We’ve got people coming to The Social from all over the country and it’s a great opportunity to show the talent Maidstone has to offer.”

DJ Carl Cox
DJ Carl Cox

Source Bar regular Rob Cockerton is one of the familiar faces Mr Fanciulli has asked to play to the expected 10,000-strong crowd.

Mr Fanciulli said: “Rob is really well-known in Maidstone and I’ve been lucky enough to have his support from the very start of my career.”

DJ Rob Cockerton
DJ Rob Cockerton

The 34-year-old’s younger brother, Mark Fanciulli, also features on the programme.

They will be joined by artists including Ben Pearce, who entered the charts with his hit What I Might Do, Route 94, known for the track My Love and Gorgon City, the duo who released Ready for Your Love.

Thousands of fans have already snapped up tickets with just the final £45 passes and VIP options left.

The festival will run from 11am to 11pm.

Mr Fanciulli said the team will work with Maidstone council to ensure noise levels are monitored and free passes will be offered to neighbouring households.

The producer added crowds can expect better production and facilities compared to last year. He said: “We want everyone to walk away having enjoyed themselves.”

Thousands attended The Social in Mote Park last year
Thousands attended The Social in Mote Park last year

Mr Fanciulli and his team will also take over Mote Park on Saturday, August 23 and Sunday, August 24, with with Feast – a festival of food, drink and entertainment.

Visitors will be greeted with markets, cooking demonstrations, a beer, cider and ale farm, champagne and cocktail bars and a funfair. Reigning MasterChef champion Natalie Coleman will be on hand to showcase her skills.

On the same weekend, Mr Fanciulli will celebrate his 15th anniversary of playing in his hometown.

The DJ will stage a 15-hour set at Source Bar, in Rose Yard, on the SundayAugust 24. The show will also mark 15 years since the venue opened.

For more details about the events can be found at www.thesocialfestival.com, www.thesocialfoodfest.com and www.residentadvisor.net.

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