BROADCASTER Melvyn Bragg is among a host of famous names who will speak next month at a literary festival at Blenheim Palace.

This year’s festival of Literature, Film and Music will take place at the stately home in Woodstock from Thursday, October 12 and Sunday, October 15.

Lord Bragg, in conversation with Diarmaid MacCulloch, will explain what drove William Tyndale to create an English translation of the Bible in 16th century England and how his work brought about profound change.

Broadcaster Peter Snow and novelist Alexander McCall Smith are among other leading figures announced for the festival.

Mr Snow and his journalist wife Ann Macmillan will talk about their new book of true stories of courage, cunning and compassion in war.

Scottish author Mr McCall Smith will talk to radio broadcaster Sue MacGregor about the books and music that have influenced his life.

The event’s website said: “Tickets are now on sale for the festival, which will feature more than 30 talks on cultural, historic and literary themes.”

Historian Bettany Hughes is the speaker at Friday’s literary dinner on October 13 at 7.30pm.

At the black tie literary dinner with a menu prepared by Italian Embassy head chef Danilo Cortellini Dr Hughes will talk about her latest book, Istanbul: A Tale of Three Cities.

Saturday sees a series of events to mark the 150th anniversary of Harper’s Bazaar magazine.

For further information visit blenheimpalaceliteraryfestival.com