DESPITE only kicking off today, Cirencester's second literary festival has already drawn in more than 100 visitors to its first sell-out event this year.

Book lovers all over town are excited for a week of zombies, murder mysteries, play writing and more.

Cirencester LitFest began today (Monday) and event boasts 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.

The event today, featuring author Liz Pichon, saw 100 people attend. The whole audience got involved with creating a doodle monster.

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 week 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