TOMORROW (Saturday) is the beginning of the first ever Oxfam Bookfest, promising a host of events over the next few days. The two-week long, nationwide festival runs from July 4 to July 18, and celebrates the country s passion for books while aiming to

TOMORROW (Saturday) is the beginning of the first ever Oxfam Bookfest, promising a host of events over the next few days.

The two-week long, nationwide festival runs from July 4 to July 18, and celebrates the country's passion for books while aiming to fight poverty through a love of reading.

The WGC branch of Oxfam, in Fretherne Road, is joining in the festival by staging a series of events across the fortnight.

Sonia Illes, manager of the WGC Oxfam shop said: "We know from the range of books we sell that people love nothing more than a good read.

"Bookfest gives all of our customers the chance to come together and celebrate how great it is to help to change lives for the better through reading."

There will be a string of events taking place at the WGC shop over the fortnight.

Tomorrow, Hertfordshire historian and archaeologist Tony Rook will popping in to talk about his work and to sign books between 11am and noon.

On Saturday afternoon, members of the WGC literary society will be discussing a selection of popular novels and talking about the society. They will be in store between 3pm and 5pm.

On Tuesday, July 7, crime writer Robert Richardson will be signing books and discussing the crime genre between 11am and noon.

For more information about events happening over Oxfam Bookfest, buy this Wednesday's edition of the Welwyn & Hatfield Times.