THERE’S good news for art and craft lovers disappointed at last year’s cancellation of Craft Festival, Bovey Tracey: a digital version will take place next month – and planners are hoping the actual festival will return in September.

Sarah James from Bovey Tracey, the craft festival director, said: ‘Last year was a year like no other, but amid the doom and gloom we launched the first digital festival, which was received by more than 20,000 visitors and supported more than 400 makers from across the UK and Europe.

‘The feedback we received was exceptional from all of those who took part, so we are back online this March with even more content. We had a huge response and makers from all over the globe will be represented.’

Between March 26 and 28, more than 150 contemporary makers from across the world will be taking part in the Digital Craft Festival.

As well as the chance to view and buy the finest creations in unique, hand-made art and crafts, the festival will also feature talks, interviews with makers, plus bookable workshops and demonstrations.

New Pottery Throwdown judge, Richard Miller, Aardman animator Jim Parkyn, and weaver Laura Thomas are just a few of the names hosting live sessions, alongside 150 curated makers, including ‘queen of the potters’ Sue Pryke; one of the UK’s finest jewellers Daphne Krinos and paper artist Jennifer Collier who will be hosting a make-along session.

For those wanting a little more, there is live yoga, Qigong and breathwork sessions to calm the mind.

Sarah added: ‘Although the Digital Craft Festival has been a huge success, we are hoping to return in person to Cheltenham Town Hall this August and our flagship event in Bovey Tracey on September 10-12, which is very exciting for all those involved.

‘In the meantime, please tune in on Friday, March 26, as we have an incredible festival lined-up crammed with demos and talks, not to mention the array of crafters showcasing their work – making it the perfect place to purchase something truly unique.’

For more details and a full programme go to www.digitalcraftfestival.co.uk.