TALENTED townsfolk in Bromsgrove and Droi-twich Spa are being urged to keep an eye on their calendars as the countdown to Worcestershire's biggest free celebration of talent begins.

Worcestershire County Council is preparing for its annual Skills on Show festival due to take place on Saturday November 3 and Sunday November 4.

Following the success of last year's show, the authority's arts officers have been overwhelmed with requests from artists, craftspeople and musicians hoping to exhibit, perform or entertain.

The year's show features the county's best talent with 150 stalls of artists and craftmakers, and free workshops for the public ranging from DJ techniques and African drumming to creative writing and drama. Bromsgrove samba band 'Somebody's at the Door' (above) appeared last year.

Last year's show saw 13,500 people visiting Worcester's County Hall to enjoy the two-day festival and the organisers are confident of matching the turnout this year.

County arts officer Steve Boffy said: "No other festival provides such a huge variety of arts, crafts, music and performances totally free of charge.

"Entry is free, parking is free, even the workshops are free and we're very proud that we can offer so much fun to so many people. There's something for everyone, whether you get fired up over fine art or dig the DJs.

"There's plenty for children too, with workshops and entertainers, jugglers, puppeteers and storytellers, making it a great day out for all the family."

For more details log-on to www.worcestershire.gov.uk