A MAGICAL mystery tour of artists’ studios in and around Malvern is promised this weekend when the Worcestershire Arts Trail is held for the second year.

This year’s event is bigger and better than ever, with 77 artists taking part at 46 venues across the county.

Running from Friday, June 1, to Monday, June 4, the arts trail offers exclusive free access to artists' studios, workshops, galleries and special exhibitions.

Among the venues taking part is the Grove, Avenue Road, Malvern, where exhibitors include Marie-Therese King, Sam Hemming and Simon Armitage.

The Fold in Bransford is showcasing the works of Catherine Howie, Sharon McSwiney, Shivani and Tony Muckle, while at the Blue- Ginger in Cradley, the works of Silverfish Designs, Janis Waldron and Becca Williams will be on display.

There are plenty of participants who are exhibiting in their own studios, such as Anna Clifton, who makes jewellery combining precious and recycled metals at Broadlands Drive, Mary Marsh, creating contemporary furniture at Cowleigh Road, and Martin Caulkin, painting in watercolour and oil at Naunton, near Upton.

Arts Trail co-ordinator Sarah Jones said: “We are excited to be opening up a world of arts and crafts, hitherto hidden, for you to visit this summer. This really is a magical mystery tour of our beautiful county and its rich seam of creative talent.”

Brochures listing all the participating artists are available from tourist information centres, libraries and other outlets. To find out more, visit worcs artstrail.org.