Festival's literary stars are lined up

Poets, journalists, writers, political pundits, chefs and comedians will be descending on the town for the largest ever Swindon Festival of Literature in May.

Among the stars of the festival which celebrates its 10th anniversary this year are Poet Laureate Andrew Motion, BBC war reporter Kate Adie, former politician Edwina Currie and Booker Prize winner Ben Okri.

The programme will be launched at Waterstone's bookstore in the Brunel Plaza on Thursday at 12.30pm.

As in previous years, the event kicks off on May 1 with the dawn chorus.

Festival-goers will gather at the Lawns at 5.30am to listen to birdsong and to be entertained by performers.

This year's festival, which runs until May 17, is the longest running event of its kind in the country.

The first event is Underneath the Archers, a behind the scenes look at Britain's longest-running radio soap opera.

Other attractions include poet and broadcaster Blake Morrison, BBC broadcaster Jennie Bond, singer-songwriter and comedian Rory Motion, political commentator Melanie Phillips, chef Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall, and radio presenter Libby Purves.

Former health secretary Edwina Currie is likely to be one of the most popular authors following her revelation of her affair with John Major.

Events are being held at various locations around the town, including the newly refurbished Swindon Arts Centre.

Jill Tomalin, of the Arts Centre, said: "We are hosting 15 events, which is considerably more than in previous years.

"We are delighted to be working more closely with the festival team.

"The festival is always growing, and promises to be fantastic this year."

The festival also features a special children's day for the first time. Youngsters can enjoy talks and workshops at the Steam museum.

When the festival was first launched it was a four-day event and marked the 100th anniversary of Swindon Chamber of Commerce.

For further details about Literature Festival events call organiser Matt Holland on Swindon 771080.