From the secrets of baking to tales of a rock and roll life, visitors to Aberdeen’s University’s May Festival will be spoilt for choice.
The festival, taking place for the second year, runs from Friday, May 9 to Sunday, May 11, and will highlight a range of different themes including Gaelic, sport, World War I and science.
Baking star James Morton will share some bread-making tips, Charlatans front man Tim Burgess will talk about his musical career and war reporter Kate Adie will discuss the theme of woman in dangerous situations.
Primary three pupils from St Peter’s RC School in Aberdeen got into the spirit at the launch of the festival yesterday and enjoyed dancing around a May pole.
Professor Albert Rodger, vice principal for external affairs, said he hoped the festival would encourage people to participate in the working life of the university.
“Last year’s event was a great encouragement and the reservoir of talent we have within the university gives us so much potential.
“We have a fantastic staff and student compliment and what the festival allows us to do is to harness that energy,” he said.
“We have a very strong range of contributors taking part this year and it covers material that would interest toddlers through to senior citizens.
“There really is something for everyone.”
Other big names taking part in the festival include journalist and broadcaster Tony Parsons, paralympian Neil Fachie and musician Mary Anne Kennedy.
A schools’ festival will also be held and youngsters will be able to take part in fun workshops, learn about endangered animals and the secrets of ancient Egypt.
Visitors will also be able to enjoy the great outdoors with a campfire party in the Cruickshank Botanical Gardens and performers at King’s College.
The weekend will be brought to a musical close with a festival finale featuring the Red Hot Chilli Pipers.
For further information about the May Festival and tickets visit: www.abdn. ac.uk/mayfestival.