A town is putting on its first ever literary festival with free children’s activities at local libraries and a showcase for up-and-coming Kent writers.

Maidstone LitFest will launch on Monday, October 2 with a free behind-the-scenes tour of the Kent Archives with expert Mark Bateson.

Throughout the week, there will be a number of talks and book signings from authors, writing and illustration workshops, readings and storytelling sessions.

Award-winning Kent author Lucy Strange and Whitstable Pearl author Julie Wassmer will be speaking at the event to share the inspiration behind their books and talk about their published works.

Writers including Lisa Jewell, Dorothy Koomson and A F Steadman will also be hosting talks during the festival.

On Sunday, October 8 there will be a showcase for Maidstone-based writers who wish to share their work and meet other local authors at Lockmeadow Entertainment Centre from 10am to 4pm.

LitFest for Little Ones will also be running for children under five at the Kent History and Library Centre.

There will be a number of free events for young readers throughout the week, including poetry readings and storytelling, at the venue.

Several other venues across the county town will also be taking part in the festival, such as the Archbishop’s Palace, the Town Hall, Waterstones and All Saints Church.

Claudine Russell from Maidstone Borough Council said: “The council is delighted to be offering such a varied programme for this first Literary Festival in our county town.

“There really is something for all readers. In addition, the festival is launching its schools’ programme bringing exciting and inspiring children’s authors to sixteen schools in Maidstone. With visits from authors such as Jack Meggitt-Phillips and Tọlá Okogwu, children will have the chance to meet and be inspired by bestselling authors.”

The festival takes place from Monday, October 2 to Sunday, October 8 and offers a combination of both free and ticketed events which can be booked online here.

You can also find the full festival programme on the Maidstone LitFest website.