OXFORD Literary Festival organisers have said a slew of new media partnerships and new venues made this year's event a great success.

Thousands of book lovers from across the globe flocked to the 20th Oxford Literary Festival, sponsored by the Oxford Times, from April 2 to 10.

Organisers have now said they are already planning hundreds of events for next year's festival, beginning on March 25, 2017.

Festival director Sally Dunsmore added: "We were very pleased with our new association with BBC World Service this year, which saw a number of events either broadcast live or recorded at the festival.

"Our new venues at Worcester College looked splendid in their colourful spring surroundings, and the addition of a couple of larger venues meant more of you were able to attend popular events.

"We are very grateful again for the support of our title sponsor, FT Weekend, and the continuing support of our many other partners without whom the festival would not be a success."

More than 500 speakers featured in more than 200 events at this year's book bonanza including actor Sir Ian McKellen who joined guests at the Sheldonian Theatre.

Visitors were treated to debates, lunches, seminars and screenings with their favourite literary stars and well-known personalities.

Other guests included former Irish president Mary McAleese, classicist Mary Beard, former Russian world chess champion Garry Kasparov and children's author Jacqueline Wilson.

Festival-goers are being urged to share their views about this year's event by completing an online survey at surveymonkey.co.uk/r/oxfordlitfest2016