A FESTIVE fortnight of activities is coming up with the launch of Kendal's annual community celebration.

The 32nd Kendal Gathering promises to entertain residents and visitors alike with a feast of specially-organised events, culminating in the spectacular Torchlight procession.

This year, more than ever, organisers hope the whole event will be a huge, uplifting success, following the foot-and-mouth crisis.

Events to include in your Kendal Gathering

diary from Saturday, September 1, to Saturday, September 16:

Sept 1: A Musical Evening with Kendal Amateur Operatic Society, Kendal Town Hall, 7.30pm.

Sept 1 - 16: Kendal Windows on Art: A 'shop window' art exhibition in local shops and businesses.

Sept 2: Historic Town Walk, from 2pm from The Birdcage, Finkle Street.

Sept.

8: Kendal Windows on Art Streetfest, 10am to 4pm around Kendal.

King's Own Royal Border Regiment Association social evening, from 7.30pm, Ivy Leaf Club, Kent Street.

Sept 9: KORBR's Kendal branch parade (Market Place at 11am) and thanksgiving service (Kendal Parish Church, 11.30am).

Sept 11 - 12: Annual Flower, Fruit and Vegetable Show, The Parish and Kirkland Halls, Kirkland.

Sept 13: The Annual Gathering Concert by K Shoes Male Voice Choir, Kendal Town Hall, 7.30pm.

Tickets from Kendal Tourist Information Centre.

Sept 14: 32nd Torchlight Procession Day, 10am to 10pm, free family fun and entertainment throughout Kendal with procession from 7.45pm, from Lound Road, Kendal.

Sept 15: Kendal Gathering Coffee Morning, Kendal Town Hall.

Annual Torchlight Charity Dinner, with some of the Emmerdale stars, from 7.30pm, at The Macdonalds Riverside Hotel, Kendal.

Reservations 015395-63018.