A 'record' 99 artists will throw open their doors when the hugely popular Wirral Open Studio Tour returns this weekend.

Taking place on Saturday (June 8) and Sunday (June 9) the free event is now in its 14th year. Organisers say a 'record' 99 artists across the peninsula will open their studios and creative spaces for the event, which promises to be 'bigger than ever before'.

Now in its 14th year of celebrating visual arts across the peninsula, the tour sees artists and makers opening the doors to their homes or studios for one weekend each June.

The event is a chance to meet artists and talk to them about their processes, as well as buy from them direct.

Visitors will discover creatives working in a wide variety of disciplines, including painting, printmaking, ceramics, sculpture, glass, textiles, photography and woodworking.

With a choice of 53 studio venues to explore this year - from rural courtyard studios to homes with a sea view, converted back rooms, creative hubs and gallery spaces – it promises to be a chance to discover some hidden treasures.

Tour organiser and glass artist Helen Smith said: "We’re very excited about this year’s event. With many new artists and new venues, it’s shaping up to be our best yet.

"We receive wonderful feedback each year from the thousands of visitors from across the North West who are inspired by the art trail.

"We really love being able to help spread the word of the amazing talent we have here on the Wirral."

All studios are open from 10am - 5pm on Saturday, June 8 June and Sunday June 9, with a selection also open from 6pm - 9pm tonight (Friday, June 7).

To help you plan your arty weekend, a free colour brochure listing all the artists and venue locations can be downloaded from the wirralarts.com website.

You’ll also find printed copies at galleries, cafes, community centres and libraries in the run-up to the event.