This year's Wells Stone Carving Festival is returning to Bishop's Barn.

After six years, the festival is ready for another entertaining year with backing from the Worshipful Company of Masons.

The festival, organised by the talented stonemason, Paul Roddan, is set to once again become a highlight of the city's calendar, taking place from May 4 to 6.

He said: "While it's been a whirlwind getting everything together for this event there's a buzz of excitement that comes with putting on a stone carving festival.

"I'm really hoping we can capture the same success we had back in 2018 – the feedback then was overwhelmingly positive and the idea of hosting a second festival has always been burning away in the background."

Offering a communal platform for the craft, the festival is set to draw a crowd like it did in 2018.

It certainly helped that the auction of the works produced that year raised more than £6,000.

Somerset County Gazette: After six years, the festival is ready for another entertaining year with backing from the

Mr Roddan added: "These events give us masons and carvers a chance to come together, sharing our passion for the craft.

"Carving and banker masonry can be a solitary task at times, so these gatherings are a chance to connect with peers and contemporaries."

The festival is not solely for professionals: visitors will have the chance to engage with masons and carvers, witness the hard work and skill that goes into each piece and take part in an auction to own a unique piece of art.

Prizes will be given to the best pieces chosen by masons, the organisers and the general public.

Individuals interested in participating or willing to help at the event should contact Paul Roddan at stonecarvingfest@gmail.com.