A PACKED month of events in Worcester has been announced as the City prepares to host its first ever festival.

Starting on Saturday, a host of colourful lively activity will include music, drama, art, dance, walks, recitals and exhibitions.

The regimental band of the Coldstream Guards is to lead a procession from the Elgar Statue at 3pm followed by the colourful spectacle of Chinese lion dancers ensuring that all residents and visitors to Worcester are in no doubt that the festival is underway.

Highlights throughout the festival include performances by Kenny Ball and Blondie tribute band Bleach, a performance of a Midsummer Night's Dream in the Commandery, a riverside artists' market, raft races on the Severn and the Worcester beer festival.

The programme also features many talks and workshops on subjects as diverse as writing for radio, the enigma code breakers, antique valuation and composing.

Children are also promised plenty to keep them busy over the summer, with many events free of charge, including face painting and street entertainers.

The programme of concerts includes performances by the band of West Mercia Constabulary, a midsummer miscellany by the city's male voice choir, a lunchtime organ recital by Scott Ellaway, an outdoor performance by Shirley brass band and a classical concert in St Helen's Church.

Festival director Chris Jaegar said the event will be much more than an arts festival. "It is a celebration of life, a coming together of the community, a chance for anyone to put on an event, an opportunity to publicise or raise money for your club or society or a possibility to raise money for charity. This year's programme reflects diverse activities, so there really is something for everybody."

Venues across the city will be taking part in the festival, including the Huntingdon Hall, the Swan Theatre, Worcester Cathedral, the Royal Worcester porcelain museum, the Arts Workshop, the library and the racecourse.

Mr Jaegar said that on every third year the festival would expand to become the Worcester and Three Choirs Fringe Festival. "It is long overdue that Worcester should have a yearly festival and we hope that after this year we shall be able to maintain the momentum and build, to make Worcester's one of the most important festivals in the country."

For more information about the festival or to book tickets call the box office on 01905 611427.