The Festival opens on Friday 16th October at 7pm with the former Business Secretary Vince Cable discussing After the Storm and offering his unique perspective on the state of the global financial markets and his vision for the UK’s economic future.
On Saturday, The Phoenix – “the best kids’ comic” according to the Guardian – opens up its pages for a series of creative workshops led by comic creators, Gary Northfield and Jamie Littler. Expect lots of Monster Mayhem and Garden Critters. At dusk, there will be a special Secrets of the Wild Wood storytelling session. The storytelling will be led by Jo Clayton and will celebrate publication of the classic children’s adventures, The Letter for the King and The Secrets of the Wild Wood by Tonke Dragt.
On Saturday afternoon, polar expert and award-winning journalist Michael Smith talks about one of history’s greatest explorers, Sir Ernest Shackleton and his latest book Shackleton – By Endurance We Conquer, the first major biography of Shackleton for 30years, before thoughts turn to Afternoon Tea and conversation with Prue Leith about her latest novel, The Food of Love.
Sunday brings talks from broadcaster and author Huw Edwards on the BBC and religion and his new book, City Mission, followed by an ‘In Conversation’ with bestseller Kate Mosse and discussion about her latest novel, The Taxidermist’s Daughter.
On Sunday evening, critically acclaimed author and broadcaster Melvyn Bragg will discuss his latest novel Now is the Time, a compelling tale set in the heart of the Peasants’ Revolt of 1381 before the Festival closes in style with a glass of wine or two with comedienne, actress and bestselling author, Helen Lederer and a mix of chat and stand-up based around her new book, Losing It.
And after that, we shall all be going home for a jolly well deserved rest!