Book and art markets are headline acts in city centre

This weekend (Friday 25 and Saturday 26 June) will give book and art lovers the chance to mingle with writers, publishers and artists in St Ann’s Square as two popular markets make a welcome return.

Manchester's independent Book Market, organised with Literature Northwest, will feature live readings from poets and authors along with stalls from some of the region's most innovative publishers of novels, short stories and non-fiction.

Running alongside this will be Manchester's Art Market where original prints, photography and glassworks will be amongst the works on  display and available to buy direct from artists. Items for sale will include: original photography by Amy Gibbings and Deborah Benbrook, paintings on glass by Bharat Makanji, and handmade ceramics by Rhian Templeman.

The Lost Properties Project, by arts organisation and community interest company, Arthur + Marthur, will also occupy one of the art stalls. The project aims to celebrate the work of carers in society. The stall will exhibit work produced in conjunction with carers groups throughout Greater Manchester and will also engage members of the public at the event to create new pieces of work.

And, for those who are happy to browse and just enjoy the atmosphere, there will be a range of food stalls and even a summer cocktail area to bring some extra sparkle.

Councillor Paul Andrews, Executive Member for Neighbourhood Services, said: "Both markets are a great way of showcasing home-grown talent and making this thought-provoking work more accessible to local people.

"It's the sort of event which breaks down barriers to the art world in a lively and enjoyable way."

Both markets will be held in St Anne's Square on Friday and Saturday from 10am to 5.30pm.

For further information and details of authors and reading times, log on to http://www.literaturenorthwest.co.uk/

For more information about Manchester Markets visit www.manchestermarkets.com