ULVERSTON walking festival has got off to a flying start as keen walkers descend on the town.

The festival now in its third year and organised by Jean Povey, kicked off last Friday with a slide show Walking in Corsica, given by local travel writer Paddy Dillon.

Mrs Povey is overjoyed at this year's attendance after a disappointing time last year due to the foot-and-mouth epidemic.

"You just can't compare the festival to last year.

We've had 15-20 people on every walk and there has been a wonderful atmosphere," she said.

Although walkers have been predominantly local, some have travelled from as far afield as Kent to attend the nine-day event.

The local history walks have proved very popular - The Back Streets of Ulverston walk attracted a crowd of 36.

The event, which also includes poetry readings and slideshows ends, on Sunday with a talk by John Murphy.

Anyone interested in the Ulverston Walking Festival should contact Jean Povey on 01229-585588.