A FULL house is expected for the 16th annual Lochwinnoch Arts Festival – which kicks off today.

Following nine pre-festival events including a comedy night, mapping Lochwinnoch and crafts from the past, the jam-packed programme will run from Wednesday, March 15 to Sunday, March 26.

Throughout the festival, there will be a number of returning performers and artists including Karine Polwart, Eirlys Myfanwy Davies, Flute Phonics, Govan Gaelic Choir, Calder Drama, Glasgow Theatre Guild and the Rose Room.

Exciting new acts and performers making an appearance include four-piece band Fara, Tony Roper and the Glasgow Caledonian Fiddle Orchestra.

Event coordinator Morag Throw told the Gazette: “We’ve had a fantastic turn out for our pre-festival events which included a comedy night which was a first for the festival.

“As it was so popular we will be bringing it back again for next year – it was a full house.

“It’s great having these events to get everyone warmed up for the main festival.”

Organisers are inviting guests to bring out their inner artist with over nine come-and-try sessions and five workshop events such as drawing, penny whistle and poetry sessions.

In the library this year, there will be two art exhibitions and a photography exhibition.

The ‘Odd Men Out’ window competition has also been running in local shops, giving guests the chance to win a £20 token.

Rowena’s second hand books will be on sale in McKillop and all proceeds will go to the St Vincent’s Hospice.

Lastly, many shops and business are offering discounts and festival offers to coincide with the big event.

Morag added: “We are very lucky to have such a fantastic selection of acts and entertainment this year.

“The band Fara have been nominated for Young Trad Musicians of the year so it is amazing to have them with us.

“Many of the events are starting to sell out quickly and there is so much to get involved in this time round.”

Lochwinnoch is a village of culture and heritage and will be supporting Renfrewshire and Paisley’s bid for City of Culture 2021.

Those looking to attend can browse the 2017 brochure for all the details or visit lochwinnochartsfestival.co.uk.