Festival of Brilliant brings stories to life at Biddulph Old Hall

Families, authors, artists and performers came together for a hugely successful Festival of Brilliant, held within the historic surroundings of Biddulph Old Hall.

The event transformed the hall and its grounds into a vibrant landscape of stories, with readings, talks, workshops, storytelling sessions and creative activities taking place throughout the day.

Organised by arts programme OUTSIDE and Staffordshire Moorlands librarians, the festival was developed with the help of local children and young people, teachers, artists and authors who share a passion for reading and creativity.

The event formed part of the National Year of Reading. It offered children and families the chance to meet authors, illustrators, poets and performers, while discovering new books and taking part in imaginative activities.

Among those taking part was Staffordshire author Alex Foulkes, alongside a wide range of writers, artists and performers who helped bring the festival to life.

One of the highlights of the day was the opportunity to tour Biddulph Old Hall with its owner, Brian Vowles.

His captivating and informative tours gave visitors a fascinating insight into the building, its previous owners and the remarkable history he has uncovered during his time at the hall.

The stories surrounding the property were so extraordinary that they could easily inspire an award-winning film.

The historic setting added another dimension to the festival, allowing visitors to explore the hall while enjoying a programme created to celebrate stories, imagination and the joy of reading.

The festival was supported by the OUTSIDE team, including Director Katie Aldous, Festival of Brilliant Project Lead Hester Cox and Festival of Brilliant Schools Lead Ethan Chandler.

Staffordshire Library Service and other festival partners were also involved, alongside Sarah Bird from the National Literacy Trust, who attended in support of the National Year of Reading and wider literacy initiatives.

Jenny from How Brave is the Wren provided the festival bookshop, giving visitors the opportunity to discover and purchase books from the writers and illustrators featured during the event.

Staffordshire Moorlands Family Hub, Staffordshire Virtual School, festival volunteers, delivery teams and representatives from Biddulph Old Hall also helped make the event possible.

With great weather, an impressive selection of high-quality food and a welcoming, cheerful atmosphere, the festival proved to be a happy and memorable day for children and adults alike.

The success of the Festival of Brilliant demonstrated the power of books, creativity and local heritage to bring communities together, while allowing young readers to experience stories in a truly unique setting.