A TOWN'S annual festival aims to light up the first winter month of the year.

The Festival of Light in Mold will return on January 13 which will include live entertainment, story-telling and lantern making from 3.30 to 4.30pm in St Mary's Church Hall.

A spokesman for the event said January can often be a dark and quiet month following the festive season but the festival aims to bring some magic to the town. The lantern parade will start at 4.30pm at the Hall, working its way towards St Mary's Church with Cambria Band.

This season of the year is rich in cultural traditions such as Y Fari Lwyd, Chinese New Year, Candlemas, Mid Winter and Hen Galan, which have originated from many places and peoples and are still celebrated in Wales. The entertainment at the Festival of Light will bring together some of the stories, myths and legends of our rich heritage and culture, with something for all ages to enjoy.

Chris Baglin, one of the organisers, said: "Everyone is invited to take part in the Festival of Light. People can bring their own lanterns or make one during the event - all the materials that you need to make a plastic bottle lantern will be provided and there will be help on hand too.

"If you are bringing your own lantern please use battery operated lights, LEDs or a torch, no candles are allowed in the parade.

"In both the Hall and St Mary's Church there will be live performances and entertainment for all to enjoy. We have invited local schools and community groups to make their own lanterns and come along, following the star in the procession."

Beaver, Cub and Scout group leaders from the area took part in a willow lantern making workshop at Mold Town Hall in December, guided by artist Gwenno Jones from Theatr Clwyd's Creative Engagement Team, and Chris Baglin taught them some campfire songs in preparation for the event.

Theatr Clwyd is also holding a free willow lantern making workshop on January 12 from 1.30 - 3pm for families and groups and places can be booked by calling 01352 701521.

The festival is being organised by a small group of volunteers from Cittaslow Mold, Menter Iaith Fflint a Wrecsam and Mold Town Council and it will be run as a fundraiser for Mold's Bailey Hill Festival which will take place on June 9.

More information about the festival can be found by contacting Mold Town Council on 01352 758 532.