Word festival returns to Chorley

PEOPLE of all ages with an interest in reading, writing and listening to stories are in for a treat as Chorley’s word festival returns to the town centre for the second time on Saturday 25 April.
 
'What's Your Story, Chorley?' will see a fiesta of fun, fiction and fairytales as the town becomes a celebration of the spoken and written word.
 
The event will be across ten venues with something for people of all ages from young children through to those who have read thousands of books.
 
The event is being run by Chorley Council and the Creative Network – the same organisations behind the successful Chorley Live event.
 
Nigel Stewart, of the Creative Network, said the event will cater for people of all ages and interests: "The response we had to last year’s first event of this kind was phenomenal and the event has got an even bigger line-up this year with 50 performances throughout the day.
 
"We do really have something for everyone whether it's interactive storytelling for the very young ones or tips on how to get a book published for budding authors.
 
“The concept is similar to that of the extremely successful Chorley Live events although we’re celebrating words – writing, reading and listening – rather than live music.
 
"We’re thrilled to have some of the best authors, poets and performers in the area so it will be worth coming along for the day – and for just a voluntary contribution of £1 it will be great value for everyone."
 
Each venue will have performers and workshops starting on the hour from 11am through until the final session that will run until 4pm.
 
The types of sessions will include:
• Storytelling for all ages
• Tips on starting, finishing and publishing a book
• Creative writing workshops
• Meet the author and book signings
• Creating and drawing characters
• Poetry reading
Gary Hall, Chief Executive of Chorley Council, said: “We’re keen to have more events taking place in the town centre to give people another reason to visit and spend their money here.
“We’ve had great support from all those taking part on the day and if you enjoy reading, writing or listening then there’s plenty of great entertainment for you to choose from.”
Entry into the venues will be via a wristband that will be able in advance, or on the day, for a voluntary contribution of £1.
 
Venues include the library, Ebb and Flo bookshop, the bus station, Goodies Coffee Shop, Bubble N Shake and Knitty Noras plus units on Market Street and in Market Walk – full details including a listings programme are available at www.chorley.gov.uk.

ENDS
 
Pic caption:
Nigel Stewart with the ‘big book’ in Chorley town centre.

 
For further information, contact Communications Manager Andrew Daniels on 01257 515265.