A dazzling array of writers is lined up for this year's Bridport Literary Festival, which takes place in and around Bridport from Sunday, November 5 to Saturday, November 11.

Tickets go on general sale on this Friday (August 25), online at bridlit.com and at the box office at Bridport Tourist Information Centre in Bucky Doo Square – call 01308 424901 or email [email protected]

Festival director Tanya Bruce-Lockhart said: "The varied programme will appeal to all members of our community and beyond. It's a celebration for all those who read books and love literature.

"BridLit is now firmly in the diaries of our Friends and supporters - we continue to attract audiences of all tastes and ages who enjoy the festival in our bustling market town of Bridport, as well as the thrill of the Jurassic coastline at nearby West Bay. 

"Our schedule of events increases annually with an eclectic programme which this year includes broadcaster Clive Myrie with his memoir, Love Hate and Hope; Sir Chris Bryant MP talking with former West Dorset MP Oliver Letwin about why we need to fix parliament; international editor of BBC News Jeremy Bowen, with his reflections on The Making of The Modern Middle East' military historians James Holland and Ben Macintyre; naturalists Patrick Barkham and Megan McCubbin; and the highs and lows of farmer's wife Helen Rebanks.

"Eminent historians Tracy Borman and Simon Heffer are joined by novelists Joanne Harris and Amanda Craig, and re-wilding champions Isabella Tree and Charlie Burrell. We also have Philippa Gregory, one of the world's celebrated historical novelists, who brings us a forgotten social and cultural history of ordinary women."

This year, there will also be a quiz night at Palmers Brewery pubs in the area on October 18, with questions geared to literature.

Said Tanya: "Luke Machin of Palmers has come up with this brilliant idea as a fundraiser for the festival."

For details about this year's festival, check out bridlit.com and keep an eye on social media and the website's news page for extra information on many of the events.

Programmes will also be available at local venues, including Bridport Tourist Information Centre.

Tanya added: "We look forward to welcoming friends and supporters old and new to enjoy this wonderful week of literary offerings which create a welcome buzz throughout Bridport as the nights draw in."