MALMESBURY Library will next week hold its first ever Children and Young People’s Book Festival to inspire young readers during the summer holiday.

The free festival will run from August 1 to August 5 and hold daily activities for children and teenagers up to 18 years old, including sessions with authors such as Fleur Hitchcock, Laura James and Angie Morgan.

The festival will also host creative writing sessions, a Harry Potter activity, a Peter Rabbit: Mischief and Mayhem event and book signings. All events will be free but should be booked in advance because they are expected to be popular.

Cllr John Thomson, Wiltshire Council cabinet member for libraries said: “This new festival offers something for all ages over the course of the week and we hope to welcome many visitors, including young people and new members to the library.”

For more information go to www.wiltshire.gov.uk or call the library on 01666 823611.