Youngsters at St Paul's Junior School in Shepton Mallet are stepping into the limelight, rehearsing for an abridged performance of a Shakespearean play.

The event, a remarkable educational project funded by the Wells Festival of Literature, is set to take place at the Merlin Theatre in Frome.

Students will not only delve into the Bard's poetic language but will also experience the thrill of performing in a professional theatre setting.

But that's not all. The festival's philanthropic arm extends further into the Shepton Mallet community.

Trained volunteers from Coram Beanstalk, a national literacy charity, are slated to visit the local school, instilling a love for reading among students.

Wells Festival of Literature is a registered charity using proceeds from ticket sales to public events to fund a plethora of educational projects in local schools. This year's festival, running from 27 October to 4 November, features events at Cedars Hall in Wells, including an appearance from best-selling children's author MG Leonard.

St Paul's Junior School's involvement exemplifies how the festival's educational schemes are not confined to Wells but are fostering creativity and a love for literature throughout Somerset. The current school year is replete with festival-funded projects, including the donation of 300 books to Kings of Wessex Academy and the Poems by Post project at schools in Chewton Mendip and Chilcompton.

For more information on the festival's line-up or to book tickets, visit www.wellsfestivalofliterature.org.uk or call 01749 834483. Brochures are available at Waterstones in Wells and various venues across the area.