WORCESTER Snoezelen, a multi-sensory centre for adults and children with disabilities and additional needs, is holding a festival.

Snoezey Fest opens with an art auction event today, featuring original pieces of artwork created by Worcester Snoezelen members and local artists, with the chance to bid and win the art.

The exhibition and silent auction runs at the Turnpike Close-based home of the charity until August 28. The art can be viewed weekdays between 10am and 6pm, Saturdays between 10am and 4pm.

Snoezey Fest, also being held at the centre, includes a day of music, dance, workshops and storytelling on August 14, from noon to 7pm, and is all about showcasing the creative talents of people with disabilities and additional needs.

It will take place in a marquee just outside the Snoezelen centre on the edge of the University of Worcester's St John’s campus.

Performances start on the main stage from noon and highlights include the charity's rock school band, colourful Indian Bollywood and bhangra dance, a Drumlove world drumming workshop, a DJ workshop, cat’s sensory storytelling and Lizzie’s Yoga – all with opportunity to join in.

Alongside the main arena, there will be art workshops, new interactive sensory installations with sand, light and water, refreshments including ice-cream and donuts and a BBQ.

Alongside the activities in the marquee Worcester Snoezelen is having an open day on August 14, offering a rare chance to visit and have a tour of its facilities usually in use. All are welcome, with and without disabilities, of any age.

At today's aunch event the charity's new Patron, Brigadier Roger Brunt CBE DL, the Vice-Lord Lieutenant of Worcestershire, will be attendance along with city mayor and mayoress of Worcester, councillors Stephen and Lucy Hodgson.

Jane Roberts, chief officer at Worcester Snoezelen, said: "I would also like to say a heartfelt thank you to our members and staff who have worked so hard to create the wonderful exhibition of artwork for auction, and their work to create what is going to be an amazing day on August 14."

Rachel Court, from Worcester Snoezelen, added: “As an antidote to lockdown blues and now we can start to gather again, we are putting on Snoezey Fest.

"This event will be just right for anyone with a learning disability or additional need together with their carers and families.

"There will be something for all ages. We will be celebrating what we do so well, showcasing the many creative talents of people with disabilities, with all sorts of things to join in with and take part in."