THE launch of Bewdley’s third book week featuring an impressive bill of local and national authors is taking place tomorrow.

Carry On actress Angela Douglas, wife of playwright Bill Bryden and widow of Sir Kenneth More will be one of a number of stars at this year’s event.

Also taking part will be the iconic rock guitarist Deke Leonard, Merrily Watkins creator Phil Rickman, Black Country novelist Michael Taylor, psycho-thriller writer Niki Valentine and Good Old Days and Kenny Everett Television Show actress Sheila Steafel.

From September 9 to 15, Bewdley venues will play host to book readings and talks by 17 authors and other events.

Subjects to be discussed include rock music, fantasy fiction, the life of Robert Plant, children’s literature, theatre, Scottish heroes, art, poetry, local history and graphic novels.

The week will be launched with a special lunch at the Mercure Hotel, featuring a talk with Angela Douglas, who will discuss her autobiography, including her life in film and theatre and the years she nursed Kenneth More through Parkinson’s Disease.

It promises to be a funny and moving event with lunch and wine for £30.

Co-organiser Neville Farmer said: “The volunteers who put the week together have worked really hard to create an interesting programme and with such an eclectic mix of authors and subjects, we hope there’ll be something for everyone.

Jan Ferguson, co-organiser said: “We’re especially excited with the events we’re putting on for the schools, this year and glad that the pubs and cafes also want to be involved.

“There will be book swaps, a poetry slam, a literary quiz, a book-making workshop and an exhibition of amazing book art. People have shown real enthusiasm.”

Tickets prices start from £2 and will go on sale at the Bewdley Festival launch on July 19.

They will be available at adbooker.worcesternews.co.uk/store or by visiting Bewdley’s tourist information centre.