IMPRESSIONIST Alistair McGowan recently visited Stokesay Castle ahead of his appearance at Ludlow Fringe Festival later this month.

The 58-year-old had a look around the property along with his wife Charlotte Page, with a post on Stokesay Castle's Facebook page saying that it was lovely to meet them.  

A spokesperson said: "The weather at Stokesay Castle this past weekend was beautiful and we were delighted to welcome a wide range of visitors who were out enjoying themselves and all that this lovely property has to offer.”

Alistair is making two appearances at the fringe festival over consecutive days. 

Firstly, at 6pm on Friday, June 30 the tennis fan will be interviewing broadcaster John Inverdale, who will soon be celebrating 40 years covering Wimbledon.

Then, at 7.30pm on Saturday, July 1, Alistair will be chatting to Jasper Carrott about the Brummie comic's 50-year career, from starting out in the pubs alongside Billy Connolly to having his own BBC one show for over 20 years.

Other star names to appear at the festival include Dame Judi Dench, who will be at Ludlow Assembly Rooms on Thursday, June 29 at 11am. 

It all kicked off on Saturday (June 17) with a carnival parade from Ludlow Brewery to Ludlow Castle. 

The theme was specifically chosen this year to tie in with the Shakespeare play A Midsummer Night’s Dream, which is taking to the stage during the Fringe Festival fortnight at Ludlow's historic castle.

Music will come from soloists and bands including Jon Pickard, singer songwriter Joe Bayliss, soul outfit Lucas D & The Grove Guetto, and Annette Gregory. Groove laden music from Eastern Europe and beyond will be delivered by Flatworld.

Drama will be in the spotlight with a one-woman show about the darling of the music hall – Marie Lloyd Stole My Life is a show about one of the first drag kings, Nelly Power.

For more information about all of the events, and to book tickets, visit ludlowfringe.co.uk