Otley is about to become the focus for all things literary when the town begins its first Word Feast tomorrow.

The event, a two-day celebration of the written and spoken word, will be launched at Korks Wine Bar with a meal and awards presentation.

The opening night, from 7.30pm, will see adult winners of the feast’s writing competition presented with their prizes by Town Mayor Councillor Nigel Francis and a performance by award- winning poet and writer Char March.

There will also be a book stall, with a chance to mingle with established authors and to win tickets for two forthcoming literary events in a raffle.

The feast continues on Saturday, when a number of venues, including Otley Library, Otley Courthouse and the Bowling Green pub will host a variety of creative writing workshops, spanning all age groups, along with talks and performances.

Highlights look set to include a Jane Austen-inspired tea dance, Dancing with Mr Darcy at the Victoria Plum Cafe, a talk by Holocaust survivor Iby Knill and a headline performance by comedian and poet John Hegley.

Although the feast concludes on Saturday night, Otley Walkers are Welcome will round up proceedings by holding a literary walk, featuring prose and poetry readings, on Sunday. Walking and Talking, which is free, starts from the Buttercross at 10am.

Tickets and further details for all the events can be found at otleywordfeast. org.uk or otleycourthouse.org.uk.