BOOK lovers gathered in Evesham last weekend for the town’s Festival of Words which saw an appearance from the new Great British Bake Off judge Prue Leith.
The packed three day event kicked off last Friday with a wide range of talks and workshops including ‘A World of Words’ – a sold out talk by Festival Chairman, Sue Ablett, who entertained the audience with stories of her travels around the world.
That evening Bake Off star Prue Leith officially opened the festival at the headline event at the Town Hall. There she presented awards to the winners of the festival’s short story competition.
Iona Mandal won first prize in the junior 8-11 category for her story, ‘Anne Frank – Reborn.’ Charvi Jain scooped the 12- 15 prize for ‘Boundless’ and the senior prize went to Ali Bacon for her story, ‘The Bird of Wax.’
The second day of the festival was packed with writer’s workshops, live performances and free children’s events. The Red Lion in the Market Square opened its doors to festival goers who were entertained by John and Will Dallimore with their ‘Asum Grammar’ session.
A concert at All Saints Church rounded off the day of events. Festival Patron, the BBC’s Michael Collie, compered the event which saw performances from classical pianist Marcel Zidani. The Vale’s all-lady choir. Mums Aloud, entertained the audience with their popular pieces.
The last day of the popular festival ended with a gentle poetry walk, led by Polly Stratton. Festival goers also got to take part in short story writing workshop, led by Helen Yendall, for authors who want to get into women’s magazines.
Sue Ablett, Chairman of Evesham Festival of Words, said: “It’s been truly amazing. We set out to bring a festival which has something for everyone and we’ve pulled it off.
“We’ve had everything from the local talent of Hannah-H and Will and John Dallimore, to the internationally acclaimed New Zealand writer, Trish Nicholson and of course, Marcel Zidani.
“Evesham looked a delight in the sunshine, which played a role in encouraging locals and visitors into the town to enjoy the many events that were on offer.
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has taken an active role in this year’s Evesham Festival of words. Whether you were in the audience, a performer, a venue, or a sponsor; whether you set out tables, made cakes or washed up; we’re all part of a team and thank you for being part of that team.”
