The countdown is on for two festivals that have joined forces to put the bright into Brightlingsea throughout the whole month of February.

Brightlingsea WinterFest is linking with the first Brightlingsea Literary Festival – creating a combined total of 27 events featuring musicians, poets, writers, artists, DJs, wellbeing practitioners and comedians.

The festivals are taking place in venues across the town, offering mostly free attractions for all age groups.

The inaugural Brightlingsea Literary Festival, presented by the town’s BrightWords Creative Writing Group adds more community-based attractions to spark creativity and encourage wellbeing.

Alix Sheppard, who co-founded Brightlingsea WinterFest with Dave Griffiths in 2015, said: “Everyone can look forward to a whole array of events including music ranging from punk to sea shanties, spoken word, wellbeing activities, book launches, a comedy night, writing and art workshops, winter walks, a “meet the authors” session, free reiki sessions, a 10k run and open days at Brightlingsea Museum.

“There will also be a Music by Candlelight concert, a quiz night and a special event featuring the highly popular poet and musician Martin Newell.

“We are delighted to be linking with the new Brightlingsea Literary Festival and their events will bring another aspect to the creative life and community spirit in the town.”

The Literary Festival is the brainchild of BrightWords founder Helena Nwaokolo and leading member Ruth Loten. Ruth and fellow author Stephen Foster-Pilkington will both be launching their latest books at the festival.

Donations made at WinterFest events will go towards the WinterFest Wellbeing Fund to help local people and a proportion will also be given to the mental health charity, Mid and North East Essex Mind.

Karen Mitchell, Income Generation Manager for Mid and North East Essex Mind said: “We are privileged to have been selected, once again, by WinterFest as a charity partner for donations from this year’s event.

“There are so many positive benefits to our mental health participating in the kind of events that this year’s WinterFest has to offer, whilst connecting the community of Brightlingsea.

“Funds donated will help support those living with a mental health condition in the Mid and North East Essex area.”

• More information about Brightlingsea WinterFest and Brightlingsea Literary Festival events can be found by visiting brightlingseawinterfest.co.uk.