The Romulus & Remus Festa Italiana will return to Palace Farm in Wells on Sunday 6 July, celebrating more than two decades of local Italian life, culture and community spirit.

What began as a fundraiser to help preserve the Romulus and Remus statue at Green Ore has grown into a much-loved annual event. The statue, built in 1945 by Italian prisoner of war Gaetano Celestra, was a gesture of thanks to the local farmer who employed him and to the people of Wells for their kindness during his internment at Penleigh POW Camp.

More than 1,000 Italian POWs were held at Penleigh, with many remaining in Somerset after the war — and in some cases bringing their families to join them. Today, their legacy lives on through Wells' Italian community and the festival that celebrates its roots.

This year's event will be held at Palace Farm, just off Silver Street, thanks to the continued support of the Phelps family. Gates open at 12.30pm and visitors can expect a day of music, food, dancing and fundraising, with performances from Somerset tenor Tim Pitman, the Lui, Mimmo and John Trio, and Marvin Muoneké.

There will be food and drink available to buy on the day, but visitors are also welcome to bring a picnic. The event raises funds for Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance and other local charities.

Tickets are £15 for adults and £10 for children aged 10 to 16. Under 10s go free. Last year's event sold out, so early booking is advised.

Tickets can be ordered online at www.wellsitalianfestival.co.uk or by calling 01749 683110. Collection is from Wells Self Storage at Milton Priory House, Gate Lane.