CHIPPFEST, a ten day festival of music, arts and drama, kicks off this week.

The festival in Chippenham has more than 60 events and 20 venues and will be launched tomorrow with a poetry and song breakfast at Monro’s Cafe at 7.45am.

An open air event in Market Place on Saturday will showcase singers, clog dancers and a ukulele band from 2pm to 4.30pm. Anyone with a talent to show off can turn up at 1pm to register.

Chippenham FM presenter Andy Thatcher, who is organising the event with Mr Mojo Brian Reid, said: “There is something for everyone, from opera to folk, poetry to pottery, plays to novels, heavy metal to choir. The people of Chippenham do not know what is around them. These events will open some eyes and showcase a wealth of talent.

“This year’s event this year has gone from three days to 10. It has been staged with no grants or funding, just a few friends giving some sponsorship for the big Rockin’ the Park event [at John Coles Park on July 4]. It shows what can be done when you set your mind to it.”

There is a comedy open mic on July 5 at the Old Road Tavern. See full timetable at www.chippfest.org