TREKKERS will be setting their compasses for Otley this weekend for the town's 2017 Walking Festival.

This year's event, featuring everything from tough, 20 mile hikes to gentle evening strolls starts on Saturday, June 24 and runs until Sunday, July 2.

There are 49 walks or related events lined up with many based around a distinct theme - with everything from local history and wildlife to the delights of cake and pubs included this time.

The festival kicks off at 9am off on Saturday with a 15 mile, moderate to hard moorland walk from Addingham to Otley - with participants leaving from Otley bus station on the 762 service - which should offer plenty of great views.

Later the same day, from 10.30am to 5pm, Andy FitzGerald of Otley Pub Club will be leading a group on a 10 mile, moderate route that takes in four local inns.

Lots more events, including a wander around Otley's historic plaques, a circular walk around Swinsty Reservoir and a Psychogeographic Sound Walk have been packed into the first day.

Walking Festival Chair Ruth Blackwell said: "Otley’s popular annual Walking Festival is back for its seventeenth year.

"With 49 walks and events over the nine days there really is something for everyone catering for all ages and abilities - including short town-based walks, waterside walks and strenuous, moorland hikes.

"For the cultured folk of Otley this Festival isn’t all about boots, sweat and tears!

"Returning by popular demand are many town-based evening events – such as the always lively Otley Ukulele Orchestra, Walking with Wine, the unbelievable Despicable Liars, Otley in Bloom, Wayzgoose Weave and the Allotment Walk.

"And, on Saturday, July 1 Stepping Out of Line the Sound Company Men’s Choir will present Walking and Songs as Part of Protest."

Other walks of note this year include Forging Ahead - Otley to Kirkstall Forge, on Monday June 26.

Led by Stuart Fildes and ward Councillor Ryk Downes, the ten mile, moderate route will include a tour of the 17th Century forge and sets off at 9.45am.

Bird lovers - and early risers - meanwhile should enjoy a chance to spot Early Birds in the Wetlands on Tuesday, June 27.

The event, a three mile circular stroll bird-spotting around Otley Wetlands, starts from the Buttercross at 5am and a champagne breakfast will be offered on site.

Other walks will explore historic buildings like Farnley Hall and several of the area's churches, along with archaeological curiosities including the cup and ring stones on Ilkley Moor.

There will also, for those seeking a serious challenge, be the three stage, Six Dales Trail from Middleham to Otley - which clocks in at 38 miles in total.

As always the festival will conclude with a Grand Finale on the final day at the Manor Pub, on Walkergate which this year starts at 3.30pm and includes a raffle draw.

The full programme of events can be viewed at otleywalkingfestival.co.uk and programmes are also available from Bondgate Bakery, Otley Core, Chevin Trek, Otley Library, Otley Courthouse and other local businesses.

For more details about the timings or availability of events send an e-mail to otleywalkingfestival@mail.com or call the festival office on 07564 625129.