A TOWN is gearing up for a festival celebrating some of the best reading and walking to be had in North Yorkshire.

The "Books and Boots, Walks and Words, Walking and Book Festival" will take place in and around Richmond from September 26 - October 5.

The festival features a variety of guided walks as well as talks and events, including an evening with the poet Brian Patten.

Festival spokeswoman Gillian Howells said: "Each day people can choose from a series of guided walks designed to suit all abilities and interests.

"When not walking people can hear words that come in various guises from poets, playwrights, cooks, crime writers, and journalists and some are even committed to film - such as Blake Morrison's story And When Did You Last See Your Father, which stars Colin Firth.

"We are all really looking forward to what should be a really brilliant event."

A full printed programme is available from Richmond Tourist Information Centre on 01748 828742, and can also be found on the websites www.richmondwalking.com or www.richmondbookfestival.com.