GRUFFALO illustrator Axel Scheffler is just one of the stars coming to the Isle of Wight Story Festival, which takes place today (Friday) and tomorrow (Saturday).

Elspeth Giddens, festival organiser, said: “We are so delighted to put on a live festival again this year, and we’re so excited about the programme we’ve put together.

“We’ve got world-famous author and illustrator Axel Scheffler; live theatre; award-winning national and local writers; and lots of hands-on creative activities for children and families to enjoy.

“For two years, opportunities for children have been severely limited – they have missed out on so much – which is why we’re so excited to be back with a live event.”

Award winning author and illustrator Sarah McIntyre has invited young artists to bring their artwork along to the IW Story Festival at Quay Arts.

Isle of Wight County Press: Author Sarah McIntyre.Author Sarah McIntyre.

Sarah, who will be appearing on both days, said: “If any children would like to bring along your sketchbooks, I'd love to have a peek at what you've been getting up to; it's wonderful to meet budding young artists.”

According to the organisers, the IW Story Festival is not just about stories and words, it’s also about art and craft and getting involved.

In particular, there will be lots of opportunities for young people to have fun with drawing this year.

Tomorrow afternoon, author and illustrator, Laura Ellen Anderson — creator of the Amelia Fang series of books — will be demonstrating how to draw her exploding Cloud Cat, Nim, while Neal Layton will be doing live illustrations.

Some lucky people will also get to see Gruffalo-illustrator Axel Scheffler recreate some of his most famous characters.

There will also be lots of local authors, illustrators, storytellers and artists running hands-on workshops for children and families.

For more information about the festival, visit www.iwstoryfestival.com