An arts extravaganza will kick off when Worthing launches its first fringe festival.

Events will include exhibitions, concerts, workshops and dance performances across town.

The Sunny Worthing Arts Group, along with other local organisations, have put together a programme starting today (Monday).

Spokeswoman Hille Cook said: "There is something for everyone and, even better, almost every event is free.

"We wanted to put on something for the community at grass-roots level. Hopefully it will be a great success."

For art lovers, there will be an art trail with artists exhibiting in open houses.

Other exhibitions include contemporary installations, sculpture, photography, mosaics and work by acclaimed printmaker Clive Vosper.

Music fans will be able to try flamenco guitar with Ramon Ruiz while another series of workshops will give tips on digital photography.

For those who prefer to sit back and listen, concerts will range from jazz to flamenco to blues.

Ms Cook said: "We have also organised classical concerts, pub gigs and a blues and folk festival coinciding with the Worthing Seafront Fair weekend."

What The Dickens Open Stage Club will be inviting local performers of any genre of music, comedy, poetry or theatre to perform. Children can take part in interactive arts events, workshops and puppet shows.

Arts organisation Rag will be putting on weird and wacky events.

The fringe festival runs alongside Worthing's International Arts Festival. Programmes are available from theatres, libraries and tourist information in Worthing.

Alternatively, log on to www.worthing.co.uk/arts/fringe2002.html