THE annual Worcester Festival is just a few weeks away and with it more than 330 events to keep the masses entertained.

The arts, music and cultural extravaganza – which encompasses the Worcester Camra Beer, Cider and Perry Festival and the newly established Worcester Music Festival – runs from Saturday, August 15, to Monday, August 31.

Highlights include the firing of the Worcestershire 214 Battery Regiment guns, an all-male production of Shakespeare’s The Merchant of Venice, an exhibition of Hollywood costumes in Worcester Cathedral and the ever-popular riverside artists’ market.

The festival is organised by arts organisation Worcester Live.

Its chief executive Chris Jaeger is urging as many people as possible, of all ages and backgrounds, to get involved.

He said: “I am so excited about this year’s festival.

“It truly will be the biggest and best to date with more than 330 events taking place over the two- week period, 229 of which are completely free and 70 of which are specifically designed for children.

“There will be fantastic bands, films, drama, the Camra beer festival, the Worcester Music Festival, workshops and live performance.

“The festival will end, as always, on Bank Holiday Monday with a phenomenal firework display down by the river Severn which is open to all and absolutely free of charge.

“There really is something for everyone so if residents only do one thing this summer it should be to come and enjoy your Worcester Festival.”

The 214 Battery guns will be fired from South Quay at 2pm on Saturday, August 15, while The Merchant of Venice is being performed by the Festival Players at the city’s recently refurbished Swan Theatre on Wednesday, August 26.

Starstruck in the Cathedral, running thro-ughout the festival, is an exhibition of more than 100 costumes worn by major stars in a variety of BAFTA and Oscar-winning movies, television shows and stage shows.

There will be a series of costumed dance showcases, workshops and lectures alongside the programme.

Your Worcester News will again be giving you special access to the festival with daily coverage and a full what’s on listing.

To find out more, pick up a free brochure from various city centre shops, visit worcesterfestival.co.uk or call the box office on 01905 611427.