Live music, art exhibitions, dance and a talk from the town's MP are all on the bill as the new Kenilworth Fringe Festival begins next week.

Opportunities to hear from top human rights barrister Michael Mansfield KC and leading screenwriter, Andrew Davies are also available as the festival gets underway on Monday 2 February.

Organised by Kenilworth Chamber of Trade, the festival runs until February 8 and will feature venues across the town.

The wide range of events caters to all interests and ages - and many of them will be held free of charge.

Screenwriter Nick Walker - creator of TV series Annika - will feature in the 'Writers in Conversation - How to Write' panel on Saturday 7 February.

Speaking on why he was getting involved, he said: "These writers festivals often begin with the passion of one person who wants to celebrate the literary community where they live. 

"It's hard to resist that exuberance, so I jumped in".

Local venues including Greens, Kenilworth Library, Tree House Bookshop and The Royal Oak have also been quick to get involved and support the new festival.

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Librarian Amy Merriott said: "As a community space at the heart of Kenilworth, the library is delighted to support and host events for the first Kenilworth Fringe. 

"The festival's focus on place and place‑making aligns closely with our role as a welcoming, accessible space where people can come together to share ideas, creativity and culture. 

"By hosting Fringe events, we also have the opportunity to reach new audiences and raise awareness of the wide range of services, resources and activities the library offers year‑round. 

"We're proud to be involved in a programme that reflects our commitment to lifelong learning, creativity and inclusive community experiences for people of all ages."

Meanwhile Aaron Smith of The Royal Oak added: "We're looking forward to hosting two days of the Kenilworth Fringe Festival and hope to see not only many regular faces but several new ones that can enjoy the talented array of musicians playing on both days and the welcoming atmosphere with good beer.

"From myself and the team let's kick back and have a special weekend listening to amazing local performer's at the start of February."

Highlights of the week include: 

• Top human rights barrister Michael Mansfield KC, Sunday, Feb 8, 5pm, Holiday Inn
• Leading screenwriter Andrew Davies, Sunday, Feb 8, 2pm Holiday Inn.
• Nick Walker, writer of BBC series Annika, Saturday, February 7, 3pm, Holiday Inn
• Kenilworth MP Sir Jeremy Wright in conversation, Thursday, February 5, 5.30pm, Greens
• Opera singer Samantha Oxborough, Monday, February 2, 7pm, United Reformed Church
• Political discussion on the challenge of populism, Friday February 6, 6pm, Holiday Inn
• Concert pianist Julian Hellaby, Thursday, February 5, 7pm, United Reformed Church
• Talk on the history of Kenilworth, Thursday, February 5, 7.30pm, Kenilworth Library.
• Writers in conversation, Saturday, February 7, Holiday Inn.

A full listing of all the events at Kenilworth Fringe Festival is available on the website of Kenilworth Chamber of Trade.

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Most of the weekday events are free of charge, but some do have an entry fee. Please check the website for full details.