Witney's first book festival has been announced, with a line-up of up-and-coming authors and established local writers.

It is being staged by the town's branch of Waterstones, in Market Square, and runs from September 1 to 6.

Writers already signed up include Catherine O'Flynn, winner of this year's Costa Book Award for first novel What Was Lost; former Witney MP and Government minister Lord urd; and Oxford-based Hugh McManners, a former member of 3 Commando Brigade and the Special Boat Service.

Ducklington author Michael Walsh, writer of Brothers in War, and former Brize Norton serviceman Mark Robson, who has just brought out the first in a new four book series entitled Dragon Orb, will also be appearing.

Most of the events are being held in the town's Corn Exchange and Langdale Hall.

Store manager Gareth Alder said: "We have done bits and pieces in the branch before, but we wanted to go to town and do something special for the first time.

"We want to show that Witney is the place to come to.

"The list of authors we have put together is a great mix of up-and-coming names and local talent."

He added: "All of us at the Witney branch are very excited, and hope that the people of Witney and west Oxfordshire will share our enthusiasm.

"Nothing like this has happened in the town before, and we really want it to be something we can build on for the future.

"There is something for book lovers of all ages to enjoy."

The week includes sessions on military history, crime writing, and children's literature.