Festival to feature book worldbig-hitters

BEST-selling authors, poets and politicians are set to appear at Sheffield’s annual Off The Shelf festival, to take place in October.

This year’s line-up includes veteran politician Tony Benn, journalist and former prime minister’s aide Alastair Campbell, current affairs commentator Will Hutton, comedienne Jenny Eclair and musician Edwyn Collins.

Authors appearing include David Peace, Jonathan Coe, Wire in the Blood crime writer Val McDermid, Blake Morrison, Marina Lewycka, Lesley Glaister, Audrey Niffenegger and Booker-shortlisted American writer Caryl Phillips.

Poets Simon Armitage, Jackie Kay, Jean ‘Binta’ Breeze, Pascale Petit and Ian McMillan will also be featuring in the line-up.

Coun Roger Davison, Sheffield Council’s cabinet member for culture, sport and tourism said: “Sheffield people can feel very proud of the Off the Shelf festival.

“The number of well-known figures from many different writing backgrounds –- such as politics, journalism, fiction, illustration, comedy, history and poetry – that will be here in Sheffield this year, proves that Off the Shelf has become a very well-regarded event in the North’s cultural calendar.

“We have designed the programme to be wide ranging in appeal, with plenty of chances to participate and many events located in the community, run by writers, community groups and other organisations – something that the city highlighted in its recent bid to become the UK City of Culture 2013.”

Events for children will include appearances from authors and illustrators Malorie Blackman, Korky Paul and former Children’s Laureate Michael Morpurgo.

The latest Text in the City poem by Michael Rosen will also be revealed during the festival.