Following the ‘fallow’ year of the Festival in 2005 its return heralds the introduction of new and innovative elements to the programme as well as the return of unmissable favourites. Look out for the much-vaunted BAF Sessions and the return of ‘The Mule Session’; the near legendary ‘Festival Square – Live on the Lorry’ event; the local premiere of the award-winning film ‘Meanwhile’, signalling BAF’s long-awaited move into film; the first year of the BAF Poetry Trail; the Digital Art Workshop for adults and children; as well as the return of Bakewell Youth Theatre in the garden (‘Little Shop of Horrors’) and two special performances by the Babbling Vagabonds (‘The Mermaid and the Chosen One’).

For more information visit www.bakewellfestival.co.uk

22nd April to 7th May 2006

With plenty of walking choices each day, to suit all abilities in a variety of locations, the festival is the perfect excuse for a spring break. Whether you stay a few days or the whole fortnight, there is no shortage of comfortable accommodation in which to stay.

It's not all sheep and cattle at Bakewell Show

This year saw the return of livestock to the main ring at Bakewell Show after previous restrictions due to the foot and mouth crisis. This year the show was bigger and better than ever with thousands of visitors from all over the country.

Local people have been shocked at the heartless theft of a charity collection jar from Bakewell All Saints Church. It is believed the money was stolen some time on Wednesday from the porch of the church. (pictured above) The police are appealing for any information that may help them catch the thieves.

Church tourism in Derbyshire is a new tourism initiative is being set up to encourage visitors and locals to visit churches around Derbyshire and the Peak District.

A total of eleven churches have been selected for participation in the scheme. The selection process was based on a variety of requirements to ensure that each church could offer a quality visit.