THERE'S so much to celebrate about our great county that we're taking four days to enjoy events on and around Somerset Day next week.

It's the third year of shouting about some of the fantastic things Somerset boasts and the event is now really starting to take off.

Nigel Muers-Raby, chairman of Somerset Day organisers Passion for Somerset, said: "We really do seem to be getting more widespread interest, with more events and activities and more mentions on social media.

"We always thought it was going to take five years, but this is lift off and we're really looking forward to next week."

Somerset Day received a boost this week when Glastonbury Festival founder Michael Eavis agreed to join the Duke of Somerset as the initiative's second patron.

Mr Muers-Raby added: "It's a great coup for us.

"Somerset Day has started something and people are beginning to say we should be proud of our county because it's incredible what we've got.

"We just don't talk about it enough.

"We're a great county and we shouldn't run ourselves down."

Among events is A Celebration of Somerset Talent at Temple Methodist Church, Taunton, on Thursday (May 11) from 5.30pm to 8.30pm, with entertainment from young musicians and awards for the county's unsung heroes.

There will be taster sessions at the official launch of Taunton's Centre for Outdoor Activities and Community Hub (COACH) in French Weir from 3pm to 5pm.

Friday sees an after-work social on Castle Green, with live music and premium street food.

On Saturday, it's back to Temple Methodist Church at 11am for the semi-finals of the Somerset Song Prize for young classical singers and pianists, with the finals on Sunday at 2pm.

Saturday also sees scores of food and drink producers at Eat Taunton, on Castle Green, which hosts Somerset Vintage Bus Day starting at 10.30am on Sunday.

Meanwhile, Brazz bar, cafe and eaterie, in Castle Bow, Taunton, is running a special Somerset menu next week.