SKIPTON International Puppet Festival is back between September 29 to October 1 this year.

As ever, there will be a blend of traditional and experimental puppetry, including Punch and Judy, animated vegetables, and life-sized lions.

The hugely popular giant Puppet Parade will return, dancing through the town centre on the Sunday of the festival, celebrating the puppet creations constructed in community workshops.

A ‘Lost and Found’ theme will see performances and workshops revealing the hidden talents of discarded objects, giving new life and character to the unexpected and overlooked, and there will be a dedicated 'scratch' space for emerging puppeteers and new work.

The festival, now in its seventh edition, relies on the generous support of Skipton BID, Skipton Town Council, Craven District Council and the Arts Council, as well as the town’s enthusiastic and welcoming local community.

“We hugely value the energy given by the people of Skipton to create a brilliant and welcoming festival,” said Liz Lempen, one of the festival’s directors.

“We're always thrilled by the level of community participation. We're also looking forward to the artistic talent, excitement, and smiling faces at the event.”

The team is now busy planning performances from near and far, with the usual mix of free and ticketed events.

There will be something for everyone, including families, enthusiasts and puppetry professionals.

As in previous years, the festival team is working with schools and community partners to get local people involved in all aspects of the festival. There will be opportunities to build puppets, volunteer at events or even perform in a show.

To get involved or to buy tickets, which go on sale in August, follow the festival on facebook.com/skiptonpuppetfestival or visit the website at skiptonpuppetfestival.co.uk