ORGANISERS behind a six-week festival say they are 'on target and on time' to host the event in June.

Crediton Festival, which starts on Saturday, June 1, will see alternative comedy, a weekend of live music, classical concerts, a food festival and outdoor performances of Shakespeare among its highlights.

In light of the challenging times many people face, the festival has adopted Crediton Foodbank as its charity. They will be at numerous events throughout the six weeks.

Rod Brookes-Hocking from the festival production team, said: 'Have a look at the festival website http://www.credfest.co.uk">www.credfest.co.uk and you will see a fantastic range of activities.

'It starts with the parish church flower festival, and ends six weeks later with a free finale night in the town square, featuring live bands, singing and dancing.

'We're also really pleased to welcome the Lords Meadow Leisure Centre into the festival, and there will be weekly events, including keep fit, swimming, tug of war, netball, and even open classes using their new generation of exercise bikes with Wi-Fi in the town square.'

Running alongside the festival and beyond it is an ambitious 'High Street Flags' project, which will have some 40 uniquely-designed flags up in the high street by June 1 to draw attention to its attractions.

Retailers and community groups are encouraged to take part and drop into the former Treloars delicatessen shop where two professional artists are designing and making the flags with volunteers, helping people express their own ideas.

Rosemary Stephenson, administrator of Crediton Arts Centre, which is supporting the festival, said: 'It's just great to see so many things flourishing in the town, especially when we're also going through such challenging times, so do take the opportunity to look at the website, book into some fascinating events and support local people's efforts.'