THE popular children’s literature festival Gobbledeebook is back for its second year.

Designed for five-11-year-olds, the programme lasts for the whole October half-term week and has been put together by artistic directors Jessica Egan and Jane Corrigan.

Aspiring wizards will be able to practice their magic with a Harry Potter expert, create their own incy-wincy spider books, be part of the famous armpit orchestra, hang out with some bats and farting dogs and create a scary monster.

Familiar faces from last year include Guy Bass, Holly Webb, Tracey Corderoy, Harriet Goodwin, Steve Hartley, Jon Mayhew and Dan Morden.

John Hegley, one of the new faces to Gobbledeebook, brings his interactive family show and guarantees a good time.

Storytelling, story writing, meet the authors, make the books, see the show, practice the trick, sing a long, discover your new favourite book – there are all kinds of way you can be inspired and have fun.

Jessica said: “It’s great to have the opportunity to introduce some events that are purely for children, where grown ups take the back seat.

“It’s a great way for children to interact with literature whether that’s meeting their favourite author or having a go themselves.”

She added: “The events don’t take on the usual formal structure of the adult events in the literature festival and are much more interactive and messy, perfect for kids.

“With dressing up, learning Harry Potter spell, thrilling theatre and a sensational storytelling, it will be fun all the way.”

The Gobbledeebook events start on Sunday, October 23, and go all the way through to Sunday, October 30, and features 21 events.

The team and the Gobbledeebook monsters will take over St Mary’s Centre for the duration.

In 2010 all the events sold out so tickets must be purchased prior to the event to avoid disappointed children.

Tickets can be bought online at www.gobbledeebook.co.uk and start from as little as £2.

You can also call 0845 2417868 or go to the Visitor Information Centre by the Town Hall.

DISGUSTING DAVE: Jim Eldridge will be coming to Gobbledebook to talk about his new children's book.