THE Totnes Wondermentalists are saying farewell — as they open this year's Ways with Words festival at Dartington with their popular cabaret act.

The Wondermentalist Cabaret has performed its mix of poetry, comedy and music across the South West over the last two years, including at the Royal Seven Stars Hotel and the Ariel Centre at Totnes.

Led by Totnes comedian Matt Harvey, the show will be launching the opening night at the Ways with Words Literary Festival at Dartington today.

Matt said: "We are grateful to all our wonderful audiences and performers over the last two years but feel the time is right to step away from the mic — although I reserve the right to renege on this at any time — and we fully intend to end this run of Wondermentalists with the best show ever."

The show will feature Elvis McGonagall, Liv Torc, Kate Van Dike, Jerri Hart and Norman Shuffle as well as Matt.

Contributors to the Dead Poets' Slam include the former Poet Laureate Andrew Motion and philosopher A C Grayling who are both taking part in this year's festival.

Ways With Words organiser Kay Dunbar said: "I love the unexpected, creative humour of these shows. They are organised but unpredictable, professional but spontaneous. It's a wonderful combination — as their name suggests."