TROWBRIDGE'S first Book Festival opens on Thursday, ahead of a week of activities which aim to get children hooked on reading and excite the imaginations of adult readers.

The festival, taking place from September 28-October 7, will celebrate arts and literature with a flurry of free activities. Authors’ talks, children’s activities, performances, and workshops open to the public promise to tickle the community’s book cravings.

Kimberley Watt will be using her book, World Elite Dance Academy, to motivate young readers and writers. Chris Vick, whose works include Kook and Storms will be leading creative writing workshops in secondary schools.

Chris said: “I’m obsessed with the sea; the beauty, the danger, the un-knowable nature of the ocean. It’s why I work in conservation. It’s why I surf. It’s what I write about. I also write about what it’s like to be young, in trouble and out of your depth.”

Television journalist turned junior doctor, Rachel Clarke, will host a talk on her book that captures life on the NHS frontline Your Life in My Hands.

A later talk by Rachel Ward, author of The Cost of Living: An Ant and Bea Mystery, is at Trowbridge Library, where there will be Storytime on both Saturdays and Bedtime Stories on October 5.

The Trowbridge BookFest secondhand book exchange will allow locals to swap their loved books for new stories.

Tracy Sullivan, director of Town Hall Arts, said: “We’re really excited to be part of Trowbridge BookFest. We want to raise interest in books and reading and put Trowbridge on the map as a place where people can enjoy, experience and take part in new creative and exciting activities.”

The opening day of the festival, National Poetry Day on September 28 will host local poet Dawn Gorman’s visual art workshops based on theme of Freedom.

The festival is being organised by Town Hall Arts, Trowbridge Library and Collaborative Schools Ltd. Full details of events, how to book for free and ticketed events and the secondhand bookswap at www.townhallarts.co.uk