The St Austell Festival of Music and Speech will return in November at St John’s Methodist Church, with nine days of inspiring poetry, drama and music.

Spoken word sessions will take place from November 22 to 25, with music sessions from November 28 to December 2. This year’s adjudicators will be Ann Bauer (spoken word) and Elizabeth Childs (music).

General secretary Anne Keast said: “Before the pandemic, the festival regularly welcomed over 1,000 young people as well as some adults. It is hoped numbers will increase as things get back to normal.

“Although most classes are still competitive, we believe taking part is more important. Participation enables young people to become more confident and helps to build their self-esteem. The good communication skills which are developed will be an asset in the future, whatever they do in life. The festival is also a golden opportunity for audiences to come and enjoy a host of local talent.”

The festival is a registered charity dependent on the efforts of volunteers, participant entry fees (still some of the lowest in the country), audience ticket sales, grants and sponsorship. Individuals can also lend support by becoming Friends of the Festival.

The closing date for entries is Friday, October 20. All further details can be found in the 2023 syllabus, which is now online at www.staustellfestival.org, or by calling the secretary on 07398 823139.