London's position as a world-beating centre of design is being underlined with a new annual festival. The London Design Festival, which is the brainchild of ex-Design Council Chairman John Sorrell, will run from 20 to 28 September 2003. It will feature over 50 events and will include participation from more than 30 organisations. Perhaps the most exciting event to have been announced so far is the World Creative Forum, a two-and-a-half day conference featuring delegates from all over the world. So far attendees include designers Terence Conran, Richard Seymour, Thomas Heatherwick and Will Allsop as well as artist Anthony Gormley, writer Iain Sinclair and Director of Artangel James Lingwood. The Festival will underline the importance of creativity and design to the UK, said Design Council Business Director Harry Rich. 'Good design isn't just about looks and image, it's the engine behind the success of business in this country and also potentially a valuable tool for the public sector. This festival is an opportunity to demonstrate the importance and value of our design talent in boosting our economic and social well being.' Organiser John Sorrell said: 'It's about time we had an annual event which celebrates and promotes London as the creative capital of the world and as the gateway to the UK's brilliant creative industries. This will enhance our international reputation and has the potential to create new work, new jobs and new inward investment.' The Rt Hon Tessa Jowell MP concurred. 'The Festival's partnership approach is key to demonstrating the major regenerative power of design and creativity on both the economy and the quality of life of communities.' Via www.designcouncil.org.uk