THE glitz and glamour of Hollywood is on its way to Chagford with the announcement that the inaugural Chagford Film Festival is to take place in September.

The week's events kick off on Monday September 19, with burlesque events and music by Nick Scott and his jazz band marking the opening of the festival.

Films will be shown at three venues throughout the week — The Globe Inn Cinema, Endecott House and the Jubilee Hall. Many of the films showing throughout the week will be local films. There will also be film-related workshops on offer.

The film 'The Long March to Freedom' will be premiered at the festival. Set in 1945, the film tells the tale of thousands of allied prisoners of war forced to march west into Germany. The harrowing tale is told through the eyes of the few survivors.

Director Stephen Saunders and editor David Arshadi will be giving a talk, and answering questions about the film.

Film-maker and presenter Richard Terry will be giving children from Chagford Primary School a talk about his experiences around the globe, filming natural history documentaries, and showing some of his work.

Children will also be able to enjoy the screening of 'Labyrinth' starring David Bowie, at the Globe Cinema from 4pm on Thursday September 22.

Musicals will be the order of the day on Friday 23, with 'The Rocky Horror Picture Show' playing at the Jubilee Hall and 'Grease' will be showing at the Globe Cinema.

Elizabeth Jane Baldry will be playing the harp to accompany the silent black and white film 'Sunrise'.

Local businesses will be getting in on the fun, dressing up their shop windows with the film theme in mind. Many have generously given prizes for the raffle, with proceeds this year going to the charity Farms for City Children.

Organisers Mary and Graham French, and Nicky and Don Badger hope to make the festival an annual event.

Mary said: 'We want to get the whole town involved, and think the film festival will be great fun. We are planning other events for the week.

For more information call Mary on 01647 433485 or drop into the Globe Inn.