CHESTER Performs, the organisation behind the nationally acclaimed Grosvenor Park Open Air Theatre, has stepped in to run this year’s Essar Chester Literature Festival.

The group has confirmed that customers who have bought tickets from Chester Festivals will have those tickets honoured and no action needs to be taken by ticket holders.

Tickets can still be bought from www.chesterliteraturefestival.co.uk.

Andrew Bentley, of Chester Performs, said: “Although these are not ideal circumstances in which to be taking over a festival, we are nevertheless determined that this year’s event will be a joyous occasion and we will be adding our own famous welcome to the staging of these events.

“The 2012 line-up, which we think is the best ever, includes some incredible names like David Mitchell, Clare Balding, Jenny Eclair, Will Self and former Poet Laureate Andrew Motion, some of which are already sold out.

“The festival itself has a long and distinguished history, along with a great number of local supporters and volunteers, and we are determined it continues to build on this history.”

The event will continue to be sponsored by Essar Oil, who has given its support to the move.

Edward Brady, of Essar, said: “We have confirmed we will be working with the festival as usual. We are delighted an organisation of the calibre of Chester Performs, with whom we already work on the Grosvenor Park Open Air Theatre, is able to step in so quickly to ensure the future of the festival.”

Customers who have any queries about their tickets should contact Chester Performs on 01244 409113

Cheshire West and Chester Council’s culture chief has expressed ‘great shock’ at the demise of Chester Festivals.

Cllr Stuart Parker, executive member for culture and recreation, said: “This news will be a great shock to everyone. Chester Festivals has done a wonderful job in helping to put this city on the map.

“The council has backed these events through funding and will, of course, be seeking clarification of the situation.”

An Arts Council England spokesman said: “Chester Festivals has contributed a great deal to the profile of arts in Chester over the last few years.

“Its programme of events has been well received and enjoyed by both locals and visitors.

“The position the organisation finds itself in is regrettable and we will work with them and other partners to reach the best possible conclusion given the challenging circumstances.”

Essar Chester Literature Festival 2012 preview – see page 63.