OTLEY is preparing to host its big annual celebration of all things walking-related.

The 2019 Otley Walking Festival will run from Saturday, June 22 to Sunday, June 30 and include more than 50 walks and walking inspired events. Many favourites like the Six Dales Trail, Cakes and Ale and Walking with Wine will return.

There will also be a batch of new themed walks such as Poetry in the Park, The Otley Print Round, On the Beat in 1957 and Lost Industry of Upper Washburn.

The festival will feature a full evening programme, too, with activities ranging from walks to indoor events at various venues - including an Otley Film Society presentation of the award-winning Free Solo and a talk on Ideas of Nature.

Writing on the festival’s website at www.otleywalkingfestival.co.uk, Organising Committee Chair Ruth Blackwell said: “All the walks have interesting features and deliver opportunities not only to see the fabulous Otley countryside but to meet other friendly folk, enjoy cakes en route, and drink ale in our many local hostelries.”