SEDGEFIELD’S celebration of literature will return this month with an action-packed programme.

Book Ends returns for the second time for three weeks of writing workshops, talks, concerts, displays of art, photography and children’s events from Saturday, September 29.

The festival will be based at Ceddesfeld Hall, home to Sedgefield Community Association.

Organiser Norma Neal said: “Based around the theme Lines of Life, the festival offers interest, excitement and fun for all.

"It even includes two concerts, one based on Lennon- McCartney and the Liverpool poets, the other a selection of beautiful songs of all styles by Sedgefield’s talented singing group Lirica, plus a dinner in celebration of local hero Captain Cook, complete with sea shanties, poems and literary links.

"Everyone is welcome to this wonderful Book Festival with a difference.”

On the line-up is former teacher Griff Hosker who will talk about a wealth of historical novels he has written since retiring.

Sedgefield’s Ron Eyley will share memories from his life in journalism while Chris Lloyd of The Northern Echo will speak about the history of Darlington Hippodrome.

Former Northern Echo editor Peter Barron returns to entertain schoolchildren with his children’s books and children’s book illustrator Sara Gibbeson will lead an activity session in Sedgefield Library.

The final day, Saturday, October 20, will offer the opportunity to meet local writers and buy their work. Children’s writer Adam Bushnell will run a workshop for youngsters while cycling enthusiast Paul Parsons will entertain with his book Fat Bloke on a Bike.

Visitors can also enjoy displays by Sedgefield U3A photographic group, artist Jane Spinks and Ceddesfeld Art Group as well as the Ceddesfeld Gardens and refreshments from the volunteer-run bar and kitchen.

For more details call 01740-620091 or email norma@neal.myzen.co.uk