ILMINSTER bookworms enjoyed the town's first literary festival recently with 26 events taking place across 10 days.

The festival, which was organised by a team of Rotarians and business representatives, was also attended by guest speaker, author and cricket commentator Anthony Gibson.

Mr Gibson talked about the literary inspiration in Somerset and read extracts from his book, With Magic in My Eyes.

County councillor and president of Ilminster Rotary, Linda Piggot Vijeh, said: "In all I managed to attend 18 out of the 26 events; no mean feat when trying to fit in the day job, I can tell you.

"The culmination of 12 months hard work, sweat and tears on the part of my fellow Rotarian, Brenda Lake, along with the support of her committed, yet diverse, team of volunteers. What a resounding success it has been.

"I loved the twist in the tales of Tim Bates’ Animals with Attitude, and went on an emotional journey with Carina Lagnado as she gave the background to the birth of her very personal book, Lola Pug, and got to meet Lola, the pug.

"The audience of adults and children alike was spellbound by Petr Horacek and the amazing talent he demonstrated in illustrating his children’s books."

Sally Nex, a renowned gardening expert, gave an insight into the trials and tribulations experienced by those who exhibit at Chelsea, along with the impact of The Chelsea Effect, when a plant or design idea gains instant fame.

"I enjoyed listening to all of the contributors to A Way With Words, mainly members of the public, some of whom were very talented," Cllr Piggot Vijeh added.

"Perhaps most poignant, and memorable, was the brave young lady who stood up, amongst a crowd of oldies, to recite for the first time a written account of her own sad personal experiences.

"The appearance of the formidable Ann Widdecombe caused much excitement, and in her usual, very individual style, she kept the packed house at the Warehouse riveted during her interview with Malcolm Young."

With one of the key aims to encourage youngsters, the final event of the festival was a poetry reading held at Greenfylde School, wrapped up the festival.