PROGRAMMES for the 2018 Otley Walking Festival are now available.

The popular annual event takes place this year from Saturday, June 23 to Sunday, July 1.

As always the nine day festival will offer walks for all abilities, ranging from short, town-based strolls to strenuous moorland hikes.

No fewer than 57 walks and related events, including evening talks and entertainment, have been lined up.

Festival Chair Ruth Blackwell said: "New to the festival’s evening programme this time are several events ranging from film and slide shows, including on Identifying Trees of Otley and Nordic Walking, to music from the always lively Otley Ukulele Orchestra.

"The popular Six Dales Trail long distance walk from Otley to Middleham, meanwhile, returns along with old favourites like Cakes and Ale and The Four Pubs Walk.

"There will also be opportunities to try new themed walks like Poetry in Motion, An Oarsome Walk, The Chevin Revealed, Afternoon Tea Stroll and Midnight Moon Walk.

"On top of that we'll have a number of hikes that showcase the wonderful variety of Wharfedale countryside that we are so fortunate to have on our doorstep."

"People can be sure of a warm welcome from walk leaders and the chance to meet other friendly folk."

Festival programmes can be picked up at Bondgate Bakery, the Otley Core, Otley Courthouse, local libraries and Tourist Information Centres and other local businesses.

The schedule can also be viewed online at www.otleywalkingfestival.co.uk or www.chevintrek.co.uk .