Events · Marlborough
Marlborough LitFest hailed a success after record-breaking weekend
By Swindon Now Editorial Team · Published
Organisers have celebrated the success of the 17th Marlborough LitFest, which saw nearly 4,000 tickets sold and significant engagement with local schools and volunteers.
The 17th annual Marlborough LitFest has concluded with organisers hailing the event a significant success, marking a high point for the town's cultural calendar. Chair Mary-Vere Parr noted that the festival atmosphere was palpable from the opening night, which drew a large crowd to the Town Hall to hear from farmers Helen Browning and Minette Batters.
The four-day programme featured 46 distinct events, supported by a dedicated team of 105 volunteers. Beyond the high-profile speakers, the festival placed a strong emphasis on community and educational engagement. Organisers confirmed they reached 1,800 local children across 35 schools in the lead-up to the event, with pupils from Marlborough St Mary’s performing at the Town Hall.
This year’s line-up included notable figures such as former Chancellor Jeremy Hunt, author Anthony Seldon, and novelist Sebastian Faulks, who served as the event's Golding Speaker. The festival also provided a platform for local voices and debut authors, including Helen Bain and Sara Bayat, while hosting a special celebration for the tenth anniversary of the Penned Up initiative, a literary festival held at HMP Erlestoke.
The festival's aesthetic appeal was enhanced this year through local collaborations, including flower arrangements by Tor Frost and stage styling by interior designer Susie Watson. The event proved popular with residents and visitors alike, with organisers reporting a record number of tickets sold and a high volume of book sales.
Looking ahead, organisers have already confirmed that the festival will return next year. The 2027 edition is scheduled to take place from September 23 to 26.
Source: Swindon Advertiser - Lifestyle · View original