A POPULAR Oswestry festival, set for a return next month, has released its programme of events for the public.

The Love Oswestry festival will be back across February, running from Valentine’s week and through February half-term, with an eclectic mix of events closing with a family-friendly, twilight lantern parade through the streets of Oswestry.

The main ‘Love Oswestry’ day is on Saturday, February 25.

Oswestry town mayor Councillor Jay Moore said he hoped to see the event getting the town's full support.

He said: "I’m really glad that Love Oswestry is back, even bigger and better than in 2022.

"It gives us all a chance to see and do some great things and to celebrate what’s really special about our town.

"I’m sure everyone will have a brilliant day and big thanks to the people and organisations involved.

"I’m especially pleased that there are so many things for young people to do, not just on the main day but throughout half-term week."

A spokesman for Oswestry Town Council town council said: "The 2023 Love Oswestry programme is stronger than ever.

"It gives the people of Oswestry the chance to show their love for the town by watching or taking part in a feast of cultural activities and performances.

"People will be able to sign up for drama, writing and music workshops, free guided tours of the town, and there will be music in the pubs and on the streets.

"You can even get involved with English Heritage at Old Oswestry Hillfort.

"Highlights of the programme include a spectacular twilight Lantern Parade, designed by local cultural organisation Designs in Mind, and led by local young people.

"Shropshire-based Twisted Techno has once again designed a really exciting music programme, which includes DJ, drum and singing workshops at Hermon Arts.

"From February 16 onward, Qube will host a major exhibition of photographs under the theme ‘Love Oswestry; Love Where You Live’.

"This fabulous event will bring back Qube’s much-loved local photography competition and there will be a series of prizes including special prizes for under-16s, among others."

Samantha Jones, co-ordinator for the Oswestry High Street Heritage Action Zone, said: “We are really excited about a very special day that brings alive Oswestry’s culture and heritage and lets people find out more about this historic, friendly, and surprising town.

"Our funder, Historic England will be delighted to see this great example of how programmes like this can be great fun for people of all ages."

For more information and booking links, visit https://tinyurl.com/loveoswestry2023