BOOK lovers all over Cirencester are preparing for a week of zombies, murder mysteries, play writing and more as the second annual Literary Festival creeps closer.

Cirencester LitFest is kicking off at the end of this month, with brand new events for adults as well as children this year.

Last year's first-time event was pronounced a huge success, with many of the book signings and creative classes completely selling out.

As the start of the festival, held at Octavia's Bookshop and Cirencester Library, crawls closer tickets have started to disappear fast.

Organisers are now urging those interested to book a place fast.

A taste of what is still to come includes author Jeff Norton, who wrote still-to-be-released Memoirs of a Neurotic Zombie. Children are invited to Jeff's session dressed up in their best zombie gear, with prizes for the best costume.

Also to come this year is a session with playwright Natasha Farrant, who will be teaching children how to write their own mini screenplays.

For the first time, the festival is offering two adult events, held in the evening. Guests will be able to enjoy curry and cider pairing with food writers as well as a talk led by a travel writer.

The LitFest, held from July 28 to August 2 is in aid of charity The Bingham Trust. Tickets cost £2 for children, with the adult events selling at £5 each. Events are held at Cirencester Library or Octavia's Bookshop.

FULL LIT FEST TIMETABLE

Monday, July 28 @ 11am in Library - Liz Pichon (sold out)
Monday, July 28 @ 2.30pm at the bookshop - S F Said
Tuesday, July 29 @ 11am in Library - Jeff Norton
Tuesday, July 29 @ 2.30pm in bookshop - Lucy Coats
Wednesday, July 30 @ 11am in Library - Tracey Corderoy
Wednesday, July 30 @ 2.30pm in bookshop - Natasha Farrant
Thursday, July 31 @ 11am in Library - Elizabeth Laird
Thursday, July 31 @ 2.30pm in bookshop - Nicholas Allan
Friday, August 1 @ 11am in Library - Lauren St John
Friday, August 1 @ 2.30pm in bookshop - James Mayhew
Saturday, August 2 @ 11am in bookshop - Joe Craig
Saturday, August 2 @ 2.30pm in bookshop - Damian Dibben
      
Evenings for adults

Tuesday, July 29 @ 7.30pm in the library - Ivor Peters & Rory Souter
Thursday, July 31 @ 7.30pm in the library - Elizabeth Laird