Organisers of the 2024 Ilminster Literary Festival receive praise for a 'brilliant' event on May 30 to June 6.

25 events were held over 10 days and more than1000 tickets sold, Ilminster's very own Literary Festival 2024 lived up to its reputation as an annual town highlight.

Vistors came largely from Ilminster but also from many of the surrounding villages and from towns as far afield as Frome, they even included some ‘audience firsts’ - a gentleman aged 103, two babies and a dog - owned by Felice Hardy, speaking about her book ‘The Tennis Player who Escaped the Nazis’ 

For the first time, audiences were offered the chance to buy raffle tickets, which were entered into a draw on ILF’s final night. Prize winners received a copy of one of the books featured in the festival.

Sue Collard said: "This idea proved popular with proceeds covering the cost of the book prizes and producing a small profit for ILF funds. Thanks to the many who took part - we hope winners enjoy their read. "

For the last two festivals Marcus Bishop, Manager of Waterstones Yeovil and occasional colleagues from the Yeovil and Taunton stores, have been there, ordering the books requested for sale by authors, lugging them to venues on the day, organising book signings and sales and taking orders when needed. Sue added: "Thanks to Marcus and co and to Waterstones."

This year the library acted as a venue for three free, 'well received' events led by Somerset authors.

Elizabeth Delo, just back from winning a prestigious prize in France for best debut novel of 2023, ‘Becoming Elizabeth Taylor’ Paul Toolan, author of five successful detective novels, speaking on ‘How NOT to write a Crime Novel’ Hazel Prior, who brought her harp along for special effects and spoke about her novel ‘Away with the Penguins’.

As well as speaker feedback there have been many positive comments about the events from those who came along.

There was praise all round for the high standard and content of presentations. One in particular drew huge admiration - “It was one of the most enjoyable and inspiring talks we have ever attended”

Looking to the future organisers are looking to recruit more members to the planning committee, in addition to festival week helpers.

Sue added: "It’s great news that, as a result of recent appeals, a number of people are interested in helping to put together and deliver another ILF. If they decide to commit, that will go a long way to ensuring there will be an Ilminster Literary Festival in 2025."