RENFREWSHIRE is set for a ‘festival of family fun’ when The Wee Spree hits Paisley.

The popular programme of activities for kids will take place from October 12 to 21 with thousands of youngsters set to be entertained during the school holidays.

The event coincides with The Spree festival of music and comedy, set to take over the town centre.

The internationally celebrated Scottish Chamber Orchestra (SCO) will bring their free Fun Day to the festival on October 18 and promise some ‘bewitching musical fun’ inspired by Julia Donaldson’s much-loved children’s story, Room on the Broom.

Orchestra members will perform for a family audience before kids get the chance to try music and craft workshops and join a special multi-coloured orchestra themselves.

Chamber musician Colin Hyson visited Paisley this week to speak to P5 pupils Gordon McCallum, Callum Gemmell, Holly Beggs and Imogen Hunter from Williamsburgh Primary School in Paisley.

Kirsteen Davidson Kelly, SCO Connect Director, said: “We are delighted to be part of the Wee Spree in Paisley, bringing Julia Donaldson’s much-loved book Room on the Broom to life through musical storytelling.

“Scottish Chamber Orchestra violinist Aisling O’Dea will lead an interactive musical workshop before performing Room on the Broom with three other SCO musicians. Afterwards, children can take part in themed craft workshops and try out our colourful musical instruments.”

Louisa Mahon, head of marketing, communications and events at Renfrewshire Council, said: “The Wee Spree is always a huge hit with families and this year’s October week looks amazing.

“We have had great fun designing the programme with all of our venues and artists and we are delighted to see places booking up fast.”

Details of full programmes and ticket information for The Spree, The Wee Spree and the Spree for All are available online at www.thespree.co.uk or from the festival box office at 9b Gilmour Street, Paisley.