Jersey celebrates the delights of reading at the Festival of Words

Islanders in Jersey are celebrating the pleasures of reading as the Festival of Words begins today.

This year's event will host a range of famous authors, including former children's laureate Michael Morpurgo.

The five-day festival aims to promote a love of the written and spoken word, with events taking place throughout the island, from the Jersey Opera House to La Hougue Bie and Gorey Castle.

Efforts to preserve Jersey's native language, Jèrriais, will also be highlighted at this year's festival, with live music and writing workshops on offer.