THIS year's Bewdley Festival kicked off on Friday, with a number of sell-out performances by stars of music, comedy and theatre.

The 30th anniversary event opened with the return of Roger McGough to Bewdley Festival after 30 years - with a performance with LiTTLe MACHiNe that enthralled, amused and entertained regular festival-goers.

Saturday's daytime programme began with a sold out performance by festival-favourite, Lesley Smith performing the tale of Boudica, followed by another sold out performance by stand-up comedian Sara Pascoe.

Sunday saw a classical concert at St Anne's Church - described by audiences as the "best yet". While, in the evening Graham Gouldman's 'Heart Full of Songs' was met by a standing ovation from yet another full house.

Other performances so far have included Timothy Watson and Jenni Murray - with Maggie Andrews and Pete Waterman taking to the stage today (Tuesday, October 10).

Festival director, Dave Collins, said: "I am exceptionally pleased with the standard of the acts and events that make up this year's 30th anniversary programme, the level of ticket sales and the audiences responses to what they have seen so far.

"There are a few tickets still available for the appearances by T'pau and the Tom Robinson Band, but our final night with Jan Ravens is yet another sell out.

"What a great year."

The 10-day festival runs in Bewdley until Sunday (October 15).

For the full line-up for Bewdley Festival or to buy tickets for the remaining shows, visit bewdleyfestival.org.uk.