EXPECT Good Vibrations in the Oxfordshire countryside next summer, when ‘60s legends The Beach Boys arrive to headline one of the county’s biggest music festivals.

The band, one of the most influential acts of all time, have been confirmed as the first headliner for Cornbury Festival. The festival, nicknamed ‘Poshstock’ for its civilised atmosphere and well-heeled clientele, returns to Great Tew Park from July 5-7 with, what director Hugh Phillimore announced as a “fabulous” but carefully curated bill, which will feature separate days of classic acts, 80s artists and newer bands.

“I’ve always been a fan of the Beach Boys and have wanted them to play Cornbury for a long time. I’ve been chasing them for about 10 years,” he said.

The band, still boasting original members Mike Love and Bruce Johnston will close the festival’s main stage on the Sunday night.

The band are in illustrious company. Previous stars to have played the event include Paul Simon, Van Morrison, Elvis Costello, Robert Plant, Blondie, Bryan Ferry, Tom Jones and Motown icon Martha Reeves, as well as the late Amy Winehouse, Joe Cocker and Humphrey Lyttleton.

IN PICTURES - Relive last year's Cornbury Festival 

“It’s a wonderful job,” said Mr Phillimore. “Where else would I get a chance to work with such amazing people. I’ve had a bear hug from Joe Cocker and a kiss from Amy Winehouse. And we have more great names to come.”

The Beach Boys have sold in excess of 100 million records since the ‘60s. Hits such as Good Vibrations, Wouldn’t it be Nice, I Get Around, Sloop John B, God Only Knows and Barbara Ann are classic tunes distinguished by the band’s vocal harmonies and lush instrumentation.

They were a huge influence on The Beatles, their album Pet Sounds, with its imaginative experimental production, inspired the innovative Sgt Pepper album.

“We’re completely thrilled to welcome them to Oxfordshire,” said Mr Phillimore.”

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There had been doubts whether Cornbury would return. Despite attracting the likes of David and Samantha Cameron, Jeremy Clarkson and former Sun and News of the World editor Rebekah Brooks, the gathering nicknamed ‘Poshstock’ has been beset with financial woes and has largely failed to turn a profit.

Mr Phillimore pulled the plug on it in 2017 with a spectacular grand finale, but claims festival-goers insisted he continue. He said: “After our final year I thought it was all over, but was bullied into doing it again.

“It’s not particularly cool, but it is a lovely music festival and I’m not going to give it up until I am dragged away kicking and screaming.”

Early bird tickets are available until December 9, for £165 or £195 with camping. Go to cornburyfestival.com