CELEBRITIES such as Michael McIntyre and the Duchess of York will be headed to Somerset this month for a literary festival.

Tickets for the 2021 Yeovil Literary Festival are now on sale, with the events running from October 28 until November 3.

Yeovil Library, working in partnership with The Octagon Theatre, Waterstones Yeovil and Yeovil Community Arts Association, is also set to become part of the event this year.

Councillor David Hall, Somerset County Council’s (SCC) cabinet member with responsibilities for libraries, said: “This year’s Yeovil Literary Festival will build on the success of the previous years - with some great authors lined up.

“The last 18 months has been a difficult time for everyone, missing live performances, so we hope the festival offers a slice of normality, with a huge variety of events.

“We look forward to welcoming you at Yeovil Library.”

Somerset County Gazette:  YEOVIL LITERARY FESTIVAL: Rob Biddulph. Pic: Toby Madden

Some of the main events during the festival include:

  • Author, illustrator and draw along genius Rob Biddulph - Octagon Theatre, October 28
  • TV presenter and charity campaigner Katie Piper - October 29
  • Author David Baddiel - October 30
  • Historian Max Hastings - October 31
  • Actor, director, comedian and author Ben Miller - November 1
  • Sarah, Duchess of York - November 2
  • Comedian Phil Wang - November 3
  • Comedian Michael McIntyre - November 9 (post-festival event)

Somerset County Gazette: YEOVIL LITERARY FESTIVAL: Sarah Duchess of York

Liz Pike from Yeovil Community Arts Association and one of the festival directors, added: “Building on years of success with the Yeovil Literary Festival, we are delighted to offer such a high-profile programme of names for all of us to enjoy.

“It’s been a difficult time for everyone missing live performances, however this year’s festival offers a way to get back to normal as we welcome to Yeovil some of the biggest literary figures, comedians and emerging writers. Special thanks to the sponsors who have helped us to be able to offer such an exciting event.”

For more information visit yeovilliteraryfestival.co.uk.