WHEN Darth Vadar s Stormtroopers heard about the launch of an exciting festival, they decided to muscle in on the act. And one of the Star Wars fighters led the assault by climbing to the top of St Mary s Church tower in Hitchin to do some homework on the

WHEN Darth Vadar's Stormtroopers heard about the launch of an exciting festival, they decided to muscle in on the act.

And one of the Star Wars fighters led the assault by climbing to the top of St Mary's Church tower in Hitchin to do some homework on the project.

The first North Hertfordshire Book Festival, to run from World Book Day on March 1 next year, promises to be out of this world.

Festival president is writer and former TV newsreader Richard Whitmore, who will be launching his latest book, The Ghosts of Reginald Hine, during the fortnight.

"I think this is an exciting opportunity to get the whole community involved," said the Hitchin-born writer.

"We are arranging visits from nationally-renowned authors along with a large number of small events, such as talks, walks and readings in cafes, pubs, old people's homes and schools.

"We want everyone in the community to be involved and aware of the significance of words to their everyday lives.

"We will be moving far beyond the area of books, into drama, art, newspapers and discussions and we hope the area will be alive and buzzing with excitement."

The festival committee, sponsored by North Hertfordshire District Council, is chaired by Maria Iredale, arts development manager at NHDC, and includes William Armitage of David's Bookshop in Letchworth GC. Among the supporters is Eric Moore's Bookshop in Hitchin - recently named by Country Life magazine as one of the top eight bookshops in the UK.

"Everyone who hears about the festival is full of enthusiasm," said festival secretary Sue Fisher.

"I am overwhelmed with ideas and projects.

Those interested in getting involved in the project can call 01462 474544 or 07967 142619.