THE second Purbeck Literary Festival will include a fortnight of events from mid-February 2015, it has been confirmed.

Hundreds of people packed readings, workshops and other initiatives during the inaugural event, held at various venues across Purbeck during the spring.

Organisers hope the forthcoming festival – set to include writers Janet Watts, Jennie Walters and Carole Matthews - will be even bigger.

Literary festival founder Emma Fernandez said: “We have had the most overwhelming response from both venues and authors, so I have been spoilt for choice in trying to develop the new programme.”

Among those taking part last year was Bournemouth-based writer Trica Walker, who held a number of workshops for youngsters and aspiring writers.

Emma said: “Hopefully everyone, both local and visiting, will get the opportunity to take part, whether that is a library visit by a school or joining your mum and friends at an author tea at a hotel.

“Expect poetry nights, competitions, literacy walks, question and answer sessions, story slams, drawing, music and a chance to get up close and personal with some fantastic authors.

“There will be laughter, books, lots of cakes and not a kindle in sight.”

The final line-up of authors attending is yet to be confirmed.

Tickets for festival events are available from the Swanage Tourist Information Centre and the Discover Purbeck Information Centre.

The Purbeck Literacy Festival 2015 is scheduled to take place from February 16 until March 1.

Visit purbeckliteracyfestival.info for full programme details.