A FESTIVAL inspired by the famous children’s author, Roald Dahl, will be launched this weekend.

The Witham, in Barnard Castle, County Durham, will kick off the six-week family festival Summer of Stories, on Saturday.

The launch will witness the first story ever told on The Witham’s magical storytelling chair, the creation of Hotch Potch House Upholstery, as funded by the legacy of Aileen Gatiss.

Running until Sept 3, the Summer of Stories offers a wealth of arts activities, from an activities map to explore the Roald Dahl inspired shop windows in the market town’s high street to dream bunting and a gypsy caravan at The Witham.

Schoolchildren have also been creating dishes in a Dahl-inspired menu as well as a Willy Wonka art piece who will be suspended in the Great Glass Elevator.

Each week is themed around a different Roald Dahl story and the Witham’s café staff will be in fancy dress, with costumes also available for children to explore characters.

Children’s illustrator Liz Million is also launching a Summer of Stories drawing competition in the Library on Wednesday, July 27, with a growing gallery of pictures over the summer.

There will also be a children’s gypsy caravan, lent by the Palace Green Library in Durham and a Shepherdesses Hut purchased by Barnard Castle Town Council which will have a writing desk and stool in and also including a Free Little Library in August as provided by the Durham Book Festival.

Sarah Gent, arts marketing manager said: “It’s the first event of its kind, with a whole town coming together in reaction to a children’s author.

“You’ll be able to walk down the high street in Barnard Castle to see how many mice and foxes you can spot.

“It’s been inspirational how people have reacted, with such enthusiasm and imagination.”

For more information visit thewitham.org.uk or call 01833-631107 on Tuesday to Saturdays, 10am until 4pm.