GLASS enthusiasts from across the world are set to descend on Stourbridge later this month, when The International Festival of glass returns to the borough.

Running from August 23 to 26, the festival takes place every two years in Stourbridge, and is the UK’s only glass festival.

The art of glassmaking will be showcased through exhibitions, international masterclasses, artist demonstrations and presentations, with workshops and hands-on activities for people to try as well as entertainment and evening events.

Dudley Council’s Red House Glass Cone at Wordsley will be conducting behind the scenes tours from Friday August 23 to Sunday August 25, 10am to 4pm.

Glass fusing sessions and crafts will be taking place at the cone throughout and there will be a variety of talks including The Magic of Glass, Women in the Glass Industry and In Conversation with Dr Kate Round.

The cone’s studios will be open, with a chance for people to explore and meet artisan craft makers based on the site. Glass Quarter Designs will also be running drop-in sessions throughout the weekend.

For a full line up of events visit the International Festival of Glass website https://ifg.org.uk/

Councillor Paul Bradley, deputy leader and cabinet member for economic regeneration at Dudley Council, said: “The International Festival of Glass is hugely prestigious, and it is a real kudos to Dudley borough that Stourbridge is hosting it.

“The Red House Glass Cone is at the heart of the historic Stourbridge Glass Quarter and is only one of four left in the UK, and it is great for the historic site to play a part in this this fantastic biennial event.

“We are expecting a lot of interest during the festival, and I’d encourage anyone interested in trying out a session at the cone to get online and book a space now to avoid disappointment.”