THE Boomtown Rats have been announced as the headline act for this year's Chagstock Festival.

Featuring all four original members, Bob Geldof, Pete Briquette, Garry Roberts and Simon Crowe, the Boomtown Rats' Chagstock appearance is their only 2013 UK festival headline performance, and one of only two UK dates this summer.

Formed in 1975 in Dublin, the Boomtown Rats played their first UK shows with the Ramones and Talking Heads, and fought the punk wars alongside the Sex Pistols, the Clash, the Jam and the Stranglers.

They were one of the biggest bands of the late 70s and 80s, and their string of top ten hits and platinum albums earned them Brit Awards, Ivor Novellos and Grammys.

The band will perform on the main stage on the Saturday evening, shortly after Billy Bragg.

Bob Geldof said: 'It's a beautiful part of the world. Billy Bragg is a hero. The Rats are a great band. It will be a pleasure to do the Rat in Devon again.'

Simon Ford from Chagstock Festival said: 'We are delighted to announce The Boomtown Rats will exclusively headline our main stage at Chagstock. They are a classic band with a string of memorable hits.

'Combined with Billy Bragg's performance immediately before the Boomtown Rats, Chagstock 2013 is shaping up to be our best line-up ever — and we still have a number of major artists to announce. We can't wait.'

Returning after the sell-out success of the 2012 event, Chagstock retains its two-day format in 2013, on July 19 and 20.

Among other acts confirmed to play are Kathryn Roberts and Seth Lakeman, Brother and Bones, Ferocious Dog, and the winners of the 2012 Okehampton Battle of the Bands, the Aurora Skies.

Ticket prices have been kept the same as in 2012 in recognition of the tough economic situation many people find themselves facing. The capacity has been capped to 5,000 to ensure a family-friendly atmosphere. Parking arrangements have also been reviewed and improved upon.

Weekend camping tickets cost £65 for adults, and £40 for 12 to 18 year olds. Under 12s enter for free, though a ticket for entry will be required. A family ticket for two adults and two under 18s is £170. Camper vans, caravans and live-in vehicles can be brought on-site for £10 each. All weekend tickets include two nights of camping, access to all music and on-site events, and car parking. Day tickets are also available. Booking fees apply. For more information visit http://www.chagstock.info">www.chagstock.info