THERE is already plenty of interest in this year's 10 Parishes Festival following the launch of the event's guide.

The 20-year-old festival from September 9 to 17, with a feast of arts and crafts in the 10 parishes in and around Wiveliscombe.

There will be scores of 100 events, including music, painting, theatre and pottery.

Festival director Pauline Homeshaw said: “The last festival in 2021 raised a record-breaking figure of over £55,000 in revenue for participating artists and performers.

“This year we have a higher number of artists opening their studios to visitors and performances occurring on most days of the nine-day event.”

The unusual duo of virtuoso players saxophonist Huw Wiggin and harpist Oliver Wass, who joined together in 2016, will perform on the opening night.

Over the years, they have developed a great reputation due to their warm communication with audiences who will enjoy music by Albinoni, Bach, Debussy, Ravel and De Falla.

On Monday (September 11), The Celtic Tannahill Weavers will appear in Wiveliscombe, the birthplace of the festival, with Stewart Gamble, a musical comedian, appearing there the following day.

The varied programme also includes a series of talks on local farming and literature as well as demonstrations by artists.

Article by Tom Pickering on work experience.

The festival guide will be available at many local venues in the coming weeks, and more information and tickets can be found at www.10parishesfestival.org.uk