Opening of the Wells Festival

Meeting at the Grand Hotel is always a treat and this was no exception. I was introduced to Reg Turnhill, retired BBC Science correspondent, whose idea it was to hold this incredible festival.

I met two members of the Wells family, including the great- great- grandson of HG Wells called Alex who opened the festival. I was given a copy of 'The Sleeper Awakes' and Alex Wells signed it.

My welcoming speech was an excellent opportunity to say that HG Wells was one of my favourite authors and that I have read all of his short stories and most of his other works. It is not difficult to tell people of the attributes of this wonderful town of Folkestone and I took this opportunity to do so in that speech.

An interesting lecture by the biographer of H G Wells followed and I found that one of my particular and specific interests had coincided with a Mayoral duty. I am so proud to know that our town is honouring and celebrating the work of such a great author.