Purbeck LitFest weblogoPlans are in place for a packed two week programme for the 2nd Purbeck Literary Festival. Launching on 16 February (half term) and running until 1 March; events are being put together to appeal to both readers and writers of all ages, across one of the most beautiful areas of Dorset, in a range of venues. Hopefully everyone, both local and visiting, will get the opportunity to take part, whether it’s a library visit by a school or joining your Mum and friends at an author tea in a hotel.

The festival will launch with a free, drop-in children’s storytelling event by Martin Maudsley at The National Trust Visitor Centre, Castle View, Corfe Castle on February 16th. The Dorset-based storyteller is renowned for his unique sense of place and for creating magical tales in beautiful historical locations. He is currently touring across the UK with his new production of Peter and the Wolf. This will be a treat for all the family. MathewsCarole+Winter_smHighlights of the festival include: Horrible Histories illustrator Martin Brown at Swanage Library on February 26th, novelist and screen writer Natasha Solomons at Winfrith Village Hall on Friday February 20th. Sunday Times best-selling novelist Carole Matthews will crown the two week programme, hosting a 'bubbly afternoon,' of chat, tea and fizz at the wonderful Victorian Grand Hotel, Swanage on February 23rd. The hotel has a legacy from Dorset's literary past, as Purbeck resident Enid Blyton was a frequent teatime visitor. The festival will provide an opportunity to explore the area, take part in master classes, poetry nights, competitions, literary walks, Q and A’s, story slams, exhibitions, drawing, music and a chance to get up close and personal with some fantastic authors in wonderful locations. There will be laughter, books, lots of cake and not a kindle in sight! PurbeckLitFest runs from 16 Feb - 1 March 2015. Tickets available directly from some venues alternatively book via Swanage Tourist Information Centre on: 01929 422885 Discover Purbeck Information Centre Wareham on: 01929 552740 Full programme details at www.purbeckliteraryfestival.info Follow us on Facebook at Purbeck Literary Festival Or Twitter @LitfestPurbeck