BOOKWORMS were treated to an absolute feast of writing, tales and poetry in the seventh edition of the Marlborough Literature Festival.

Over 2,500 tickets were sold for LitFest 2016 this weekend, which featured talks and book signing sessions, for all ages, from dozens of authors at the town hall, White Horse Bookshop and the library.

Some of the standout appearances included War Horse author Michael Morpurgo, multi-million selling crime writer Peter James and legendary Shakespearian actor Simon Russell Beale.

On Saturday, a mesmerized and rapturous young audience enjoyed readings, drawings, quizzes and demonstrations from Philip Reever and Sarah McIntyre, who read extracts from their book, Jinks and O’Hare, the funfair repair team.

“I found it really interesting and funny. Philip and Sarah were really bonkers. I am looking forward to next year already,” said seven-year-old Dougal Gorvin, from Pewsey.

“They were really fun. I liked the drawing bit and the story too,” said Harry Phillips, seven, from Marlborough.

His younger brother Jack, five, added: "I had a great time. They were my favourite bit."

Amongst the 30 or so events, audiences could choose from a mix of comedy writers, debut authors, contemporary novelists, biographies, gardening, nature, food and travel.

In the afternoon, a post-modern take on the old, much-loved, Ladybird books session took place, courtesy of award-winning comedy writers Joel Morris and Jason Hazeley.

"This is a very charming place of Britain and we are very happy to be here," said Mr Hazeley.

"There is something very special about the novelty of bringing out a book with such a historic name like this."

Mr Morris added: "It is great that there are more book festivals springing up all over the place and ones like these are great."

Alex Christofi, who won the Betty Trask Award, which rewards authors under the age of 35, for his debut novel Glass could not wait to come back next year.

“This is my first time in Marlborough and it has been absolutely wonderful. Everyone has been so welcoming and I am really excited to be here," he said.

“I would love to come back again. I will be waiting at the front door for my invite.”

White Horse Bookshop worker Teresa Masterson said: "We try to make this for all age groups and people of all interests and this year's line-up delivers that, I think."

The festival, sponsored by firms including Brewin Dolphin and Hiscox, is run completely by volunteers.