READERS and writers will get a chance to hear some of the finest literary performers working in the U.K. and beyond at Lancaster LitFest over the next couple of weeks.

This year's festival is bursting with events for anyone who enjoys the written and spoken word.

Taking place between October 14 and 22, LitFest is packed with readings, performances, cabarets and workshops taking place in Lancaster and Morecambe.

Headlined by top poet and humorist John Hegley, the programme features major voices in contemporary poetry including Les Murray, U A Fanthorpe, Ken Smith, Jackie Kay and Pete Morgan.

Best-selling novelists appearing include James Kelman, Julia Darling, A L Kennedy, Joanne Harris and L A Alexander.

There's also a chance to talk to Brookside scriptwriter Ed Jones and a new late-night evening of word and music cabarets at Lancaster's Gregson Centre.

The festival programme will also feature lots of commissioned new writing, fun workshops for readers and a chance to find out what famous writers read for pleasure and inspiration.

Festival publicity officer Sue Parish said: "We've already pulled out all the stops this year to find something for everyone.

If you've ever fancies finding out what writers do, how they do it and what it sounds like when they perform their work for an audience, this is your perfect chance."

The full LitFest brochure is out now at local libraries, tourist information centres and arts venues.

Call the LitFest on 62166.