The annual Ryde Arts Festival is upon us again.

As usual we are hosting a range of quirky arts events during the week in the town. The theme this year is stars. We have chosen to focus on Sirius, which is a 'dog' star and also a ship.

Look out for a large red dog in St Thomas Churchyard.... and inside St Thomas, a symphony composed to commemorate the bicentenary of HMS Sirius sailing with the First Fleet to Australia.

There will be workshops for all ages and abilities, Dj's, choral events, barbershop choir and an open mic music and poetry session to name but a few.

Events are being held in three main locations: Cuckoo Ryde (shop opposite Home estate agency), St Thomas Church and Churchyard (near NatWest bank) and the Depozitory (Wesleyan Chapel)in Nelson Street. However, expect a few surpises in other locations during the week!

All events are free except where stated otherwise on the programme.

Events programmes are available at Ryde Library, the Fastcat Terminal, new Tourist Info Centre at the bus station and many other outlets in town.

Alternatively see rydeartsfestival.org for the full programme.