THE inaugural Wye Valley River Festival will be held from Saturday, May 3 until Sunday, May 18.

It will follow the story of Ratty the Wye water vole, who is also leader of the Creatures’ Republic of Wye (CROW), and he is on the run from predatory prosecutors Mink and Judge Wild Boar. The chase will unfold in a series of community and arts events down the river.

Ratty will be captured and brought to trial in Monmouth on May 9 and a spectacular finale will be held at Chepstow Bridge with a choir, fire and illuminations on May 18. Other events will be held in Llandogo on May 11 and in Brockweir and Tintern on May 17.

It is hoped the festival will become a biennial event.

For more information and a full programme visit wyevalleyaonb.org.uk.