THE stars are all set to arrive in Bewdley over the next 10 days, as the thirtieth anniversary of Bewdley Festival kicks off on Friday (October 6).

A number of musicians, comedians and actors are heading to venues in Bewdley for the anniversary festival - which runs between October 6, and October 15.

Performance highlights include Roger McGough and LiTTLe MACHiNe, an interview with actor Timothy Watson and an evening with Dr Pete Waterman OBE.

There will also be a visit from "China in Your Hand" hitmakers T'pau, Dead Ringers star Jan Ravens and comedian Sara Pascoe.

Bewdley Festival favourites Max Keen and Lesley Smith are also returning this year - with Max in character as Prince Rupert of the Rhine, and Lesley appearing as Boudica, Queen of the Iceni.

A number of shows have already sold out - with limited tickets available for other daytime and evening events. Tickets for performances by Sara Pascoe, Graham Gouldman, Jenni Murray, Jan Ravens, Lesley Smith and Brett Westwood have already sold out.

Dave Collins, festival director, said: "Ticket sales are very encouraging with several events already sold out in both the daytime and evening programmes.

"Mercure Bewdley the Heath Hotel are being very supportive for Festival’s 30th year, offering a 20 per cent discount on their bar prices for festival ticket holders on the night. They have also put together a special pre-show dinner menu, and the after-show bar returns in conjunction with Bewdley Brewery.

"It is going to be a great celebration of 30 successful years, so why not visit our website and join in."

Bewdley Festival kicks off with poet Roger McGough returning 30 years after is appearance at the first ever Bewdley Festival. He will appear alongside LiTTLe MACHiNe in a show featuring a selection of vintage, classic and surprising poems set to music.

The festival closes with a combination of comedy and satire from consummate impressionist Jan Ravens - bringing her new 'Difficult Woman' show from the Edinburgh Festival - and a musical church service on the theme of 'light'.

For the full line-up for the 30th anniversary of Bewdley Festival or to buy tickets for performances, visit bewdleyfestival.co.uk.

Tickets are also available from the Bewdley Tourist Information Centre.