THE Isle of Wight Story Festival will return next month with a slew of exciting names among the lineup.

Former CBeebies presenter and children’s writer, Cerrie Burnell, has been confirmed as one of the headliners for the festival, which will be free online this half term, from February 17 to 20.

Scroll down for links to see next month's event... 

Cerrie, who featured in the Guardian’s 2011 list of 100 most inspirational women, will be talking live at 11.30am on Thursday February 18, about her book I Am Not A Label.

The festival will open with a live session by its patron, Nicholas Allan, author and illustrator of numerous bestselling picture books.

He promises his session will not only include reading and illustration from his book, Picasso’s Trousers, but magic illusion and chocolate.

Organiser, author and illustrator, Peta Rainford, said: “Although we aren’t able to run a physical festival this year, we are determined to give families a proper festival experience during February half term.

“We’re aware everyone’s had a tough year, so we’re pleased we’re able to offer all sessions for free.

"The fact the event is online will mean many more people are able to see the wonderful authors and performers we’ve got lined up."

Roopa FarookiIsle of Wight County Press:

Roopa Farooki is among those on the line-up

Although the festival will be online, the organisers are determined it will still have a distinct Island flavour.

Sessions from Island-based children’s writers, illustrators, storytellers and poets will include Sue Bailey, Jules Marriner, Holly Medland Lees, Peta Rainford, Kathryn Rossati, Zoe Sadler and Debbie Webb.

The sessions can be accessed via the IW Story Festival website, Facebook, YouTube and Instagram and the full lineup is available online.