The programme includes over 100 town centre activities and the opportunity to meet literary agents face-to-face.

Attendees will enjoy a packed programme of free and ticketed talks, workshops and activities with authors, experts, and professionals from the literary world.

There is also a host of children’s events and a writing competition for school and home-educated children with an exclusive video introduction from Chris Packham.

Writers appearing include award-winning author Kathleen Whyman, editor and writer Gary Dalkin, self-publishing success Matt Shaw and bestselling author Alex Stone, discussing topics from plotting a novel to choosing the best publishing options.

New for 2024 is a Poetry and Flash Fiction Competition, as well as the chance for writers to pitch their manuscripts to literary agents in personal 1-2-1 sessions.

Also new for 2024 is the Poetry Hub which will host activities and talks to inspire verse, including a quirky poetry machine located in the Bandstand in the Lower Gardens.

The Festival’s Sunday night finale features writers and artists from local art community groups.

The main festival hub will be at Pavilion Dance South West. https://www.bournemouthwritingfestival.co.uk/