Chester Performs has entered into a partnership with leading book retailer Waterstones to be the official bookseller for the forthcoming WayWord Festival.

Taking place during the half-term break (February 14–21) in Chester Town Hall and in the region’s libraries, the WayWord Festival offers a raft of events featuring leading authors, TV writers, computer experts and a variety of workshops on subjects as diverse as stand-up comedy and ghost story writing.

The activities in the region’s libraries, which are free, are designed to encourage families to visit their local library during half term, while the Town Hall plays host to the a series of events and book signings.

Paul Lavin, festivals manager at Chester Performs, said: ‘We are delighted to cement this partnership; it’s brilliant to be aligned with such an iconic brand in bookselling and we can bring our wonderful audience along with us to join with Waterstones in spreading a love of books. It’s a great fit.’

Sarah Hughes, event coordinator, for Waterstones, said: “We are delighted to be supporting the WayWord Festival - this year sees another stellar line-up of great authors for children and teens with something for everyone.

“Last year was the first year that saw children’s books outsell adult fiction in Britain which is a great indication that children still love reading and that’s something we are of course keen to encourage and support.”

Tickets for The WayWord Festival are on sale now, visit www.wayword.co.uk/book to find out more.