THE UK's first Laureate for Storytelling will be in Hoddlesden to mark the 10th anniversary of the Millennium Green.

Hundreds of people are expected to gather to hear Taffy Thomas, England's leading traditional storyteller, recount tales from his repertiore of over 300.

Linda Dawson, of the Hoddlesden Millennium Green organising committee, said Taffy’s appearence was “quite a coup”.

She said: “We’re really, really excited to have got Taffy.

"He wears a cape with story titles on them, and asks children to pick one at a time.

“He’s very well known and has quite a following, so this year’s anniversary could see many more people than normal.”

Taffy, from Grasmere in the Lake District, has collected stories mainly from oral sources and folklore.

With so many in his head, fellow storyteller Giles Abbot once remarked "when Taffy goes it will be like a library burning down”.

Taffy said: “I always try to make sure the tales I tell have a connection with the area I am in, so I will be telling a ghost story about Whalley workhouse, and also one of my favourites, which is the legend of Devil’s Bridge in Kirkby Lonsdale.

“As well as being educational, the storytelling is fun, with riddles and audience participation, and sitting behind the children on the day will be parents and grandparents enjoying themselves.”

Trained as a literature and drama teacher, he taught for several years in Wolverhampton before founding and directing the folk theatre company, Magic Lantern, travelling Europe illustrating folk songs with shadow puppets.

The Hoddlesden Millennium Green committee was started in 2000 as part a Government initiative to provide more facilities and activities for communities, celebrated annually with the Grand Picnic.

The event will feature a jazz band, a book sale, face-painting and free cupcakes for all visitors.

Funding has come from the Darwen and Rural Neighbourhood Board and the West Pennine Moors management committee.

Toilets will be made available for guests.

* Hoddlesden's Grand Picnic is from 2pm to 5pm on Sunday, July 11.