For some time former Squeeze lyricist Chris Difford thought what the country lacked was a songwriting festival.

And when you've turned out some of the most memorable songs of the past few decades and worked with the likes of Elton John and Elvis Costello, calling in a few favours can lead to an impressive event.

While Elton won't be tinkling the ivories at the Carousel Songwriting Festival, the line-up is inspiring.

Programmed by Difford and Jeff Hemmings (Latest 7 and Juice 107.2FM), the festival features some of the very best UK songwriting talent, showcasing both wellestablished and up-and-coming artists.

The biggie at the festival is without doubt Guy Chambers, most famous for his writing partnership with Robbie Williams.

The man who helped pen Angels within half an hour and has worked with everyone from Julian Cope to Beverly Knight and Kylie Minogue over the years will be asking brave members of the audience to bring in their demos, which he will rate then and there.

Add to this the likes of Turin Brakes, Cara Dillon, Jim Noir, Lou Rhodes, The Mike Rosenberg Band, Tom McRae, Bic Runga, a bevy of Brighton's female singer songwriters, the cream of Brighton Institute of Modern Music as well as a turn from Difford and his mates and you've got a breathtaking line-up.

Chris, who has penned classics such as Up The Junction and Cool For Cats and had his songs covered by artists as diverse as Elaine Page and Grandmaster Flash, says he wanted to put on a no-nonsense show.

"The original plan was to scout all the people I knew first of all, and then when I ran out speak to different agents in London," he says.

"Basically we wanted people who could put on an acoustic show without it being a major production - people like Cara Dillon who are used to that environment."

There's no time for prima donna, tantrums then. You might think that's what ruled Elton out, but according to Chris the Rocket Man is nothing less than "adorable."

Although the same can't be said for everyone he's worked with, Chris is not naming names.

"As a lyricist I've been lucky to work with many artists - some more difficult than others," he says diplomatically. "Elton John was amazing though. He can write a song in ten minutes - now that's a gift in itself."

Unfortunately both Lloyd Cole and Marti Pellow - who Difford has been working with recently - had to pull out due to prior commitments. But he's hopeful they'll join Carousel next time.

"Next year, hopefully, it will be a little bit more varied and it'll tour from town to town, maybe to Bath and Newcastle.

"This is what we need, because songwriting doesn't have a festival and I think it's one of the biggest exports this country has."

And if anyone should know what British music needs, it's the man with an Ivor Novello award cluttering up his mantelpiece.

Various times, tickets cost £3-£14. See listings for details. Call 01273 647100.