A NEW arts festival is coming to Prestwich at the end of next month.

The first Prestwich Arts Festival boasts an eclectic line-up of events and activities, which will take place across the village on September 29 and 30.

The event is the brainchild of Prestwich-based DJ Jane Thomson, and has been organised entirely by local volunteers, who say they wanted to showcase and celebrate the creativity of the community, encourage people to learn new skills, and make new friends and have fun.

Among the highlights are a question and answer session with Prestwich-raised author Emma Unsworth, a photography workshop with professional photographer Ric Latham, and a creative writing workshop.

There were also a number of events aimed at the family, including an interactive arts trail in Prestwich Clough, a silent disco, and a musical theatre workshop for 7-14-year olds, where the children will be able to write their own script, before a short performance for family and friends.

The festival is sponsored by Jennie Platt Estates and Lettings, and Muse Developments.

Ms Thomson said: “We’re so excited to launch our 2018 taster programme of music, theatre, arts and much more.

"I’ve been blown away from day one by the offer of help and support which has helped us to maximise our programme on what really has been, in festival terms, a shoestring budget!

"Prestwich is home to a wonderfully creative community and I hope that this first small event will simply shine a light on the potential for all of our community to get involved in what I hope will become an annual event.”

For the full festival line up and to book tickets visit www.prestwichartsfestival.co.uk.