THIS year's Malvern Well Dressing festival will have the theme of flight.

The theme was chosen at a well-attended meeting at the Great Malvern Hotel, Graham Road.

Now in its 19th year, the festival, run by the Malvern Spa Association and a committee of volunteers, continues to go from strength to strength.

Last year over 50 sites were dressed and this year more people than ever are expected to take part.

This year, the well dressers are able to leave their dressings up for nine days, meaning the festival will now run from May 4 to May 12.

Committee chairman Rick Banbury said: “The festival last year had a real buzz to it. So this year we are hopeful for a best ever showing. It is so lovely to go around and see Malvern’s creativity on display”

Highlights of the festival this year include prize giving in Priory Park, as part of Malvern Water Festival, minibus tours, blessings of the wells led by various religious and community groups, the much loved donkey parade, musical events and an exhibition by local artist Sara Bennett.

Spokesperson Emma Green said: “I am really excited by this year’s theme as it lends itself to all sorts of interpretations. Everything from the flight of refugees to safety, to the flight of birds and planes. I can’t wait to see everyone’s creations.”

Anyone interested should contact Rick Banbury on 07933 394370 or, welldressing@malvernspa.co.uk.

There will also be a meeting for prospective dressers on Monday, April 1 at the Lyttelton Rooms, Church Street.