BIBLIOPHILES, music fans and literary lovers turned out for the final few days of a major Cumbrian event.

After more than a week of plays, talks, debates and readings, Sedbergh Festival of Books and Drama drew to a close on Sunday after drawing crowds of several hundred out of the woodwork.

One of the busiest events of the nine-day long celebration proved to be Friday’s talk by world authority on the work of Bob Dylan, Michael Gray.

“The place was packed and it was a huge success,” said organiser Carole Nelson.

“But to be honest the whole festival has been excellent. We have had houses of around 80 people for each event which is very good for a small town like Sedbergh. Anything over 50 people is good for any sort of literary event and the numbers prove how popular a place it is.”

“The only disappointing thing this year was that we couldn’t hold the fringe event which we staged last year, which we invited everyone to come along to and get involved in. We may hold that event at some point next year, maybe over a weekend, but we did get invite people along to express interest in Sedbergh’s community play which we are planning for 2011. We are hoping to get 2-300 people involved and to attract funding which will leave us with a legacy for years to come.”

Those who missed this year’s festival will be offered a second opportunity to indulge in some literary fun on October 28 when a production of Ha Ha Hitler comes to the People’s Hall.

For more information visit www.sedbergh.org.uk