Germaine Greer Tops the Bill at Porlock Festival

PORLOCK, England, July 13, 2010 - Germaine Greer and Marcia Willett, are among the leading lights at this
year's Porlock Arts Festival from 9th - 12th September.

Germaine, controversial author of The Female Eunuch, will be appearing on
Saturday night. An acclaimed academic and outspoken broadcaster she has
appeared on television in such favourites as "Have I Got News for You",
"Grumpy Old Women" and controversially "Celebrity Big Brother".

Popular local author Marcia Willett opens the festival on Thursday
evening. She has a great affinity with Exmoor and a number of her stories,
including her latest The Summer House, are based in and around the Porlock
area.

On Friday, throughout the day, over 20 local authors will gather to
discuss their work and sign copies of their books. The day will be informal
and relaxed with refreshments and free entrance.

On Friday evening we welcome three principal artists from Opera Novella
in London, who will perform a variety of opera favourites. This promises to
be a stunning event to delight a musical audience.

Also on Friday evening, at Dovery Manor, Widsith and Deor Storytelling
Theatre will take the stage for their unique theatrically performed stories,
taken from three ancient texts and suitable for adults and teens alike.

On Sunday afternoon the Festival showcases Greg Chapman's one man play
'Small Town to Big Apple' at the final venue of his UK tour. This promises to
be a funny and moving show for everyone who enjoys theatre.

Throughout the festival artists, photographers and a host of crafts
people will be hosting local exhibitions, while the weekend also showcases a
Writers' Forum, a drama workshop and the Poetry Picnic.

Miles Robertson, Chairman of the organising committee, said, "I am
delighted that we have, once again, secured some great names for the
festival. Last year we sold out in advance for four big events. This year we
have even more to offer. We are advising people to buy their tickets early to
avoid disappointment."

A full programme of events is available on the Festival website
www.porlockfestival.org or from the Porlock Visitor Centre by phoning
+44(0)1643-863150 or by emailing porlockci@somerset.gov.uk

Meryl Salter: +44(0)1643-863-371