BOURNEMOUTH Festival of Words is kicking off this weekend with a whole host of events to get involved in.

Starting from Saturday April 21, Dorset authors and the public are invited to come together to celebrate all forms of the written word.

Springbourne Library is holding the first event, which is a free children’s writing workshop on April 21.

In the week that follows, there will be a series of talks by visiting and local speakers, workshops, poetry, World Book Night and an authors’ get together.

John Houghton, Festival Chairman, said: “This promises to be a brilliant week for all those who share a love for words.

“Whether you are a reader or a writer, young or old, amateur or professional, I am sure you will find something to your taste that will enrich your literary experience – and all at a price you can afford.

“Many of our events are free and only one costs more than £3.”

World Book Night on Monday April 23 will be celebrated at Bournemouth Library with the launch of Dorset Voices.

It is an anthology of contemporary writing and photography which reflects Dorset’s variety and provides a voice for different forms of writing by local talent.

For more information and a full timetable, visit the website http://bournemouthfestivalofwords.co.uk.