BOOKWORMS can catch top authors talking about their latest work, take part in workshops and listen to riverside readings at an upcoming literary festival.

Lady Antonia Fraser, Melvyn Bragg and Allison Pearson are among the dizzying line-up at Henley Literary Festival 2010, which runs from September 29 to October 3.

In all, 100 literary figures will be speaking at 10 venues across Henley, including a series of River Readings on the banks of the River Thames. There will be something for anyone who has ever read a book – from poetry to travel, exploration, biography, war and children’s literature.

Deborah, Duchess of Devonshire, the last of the legendary Mitford sisters, now 90, will be in the Kenton Theatre on September 29, talking about her eventful life.

Actor, author, playwright and director Steven Berkoff will be in Henley on September 30, Shirley Williams will be talking about A Life In Politics, on October 1 and on the same day actor Ron Moody – who immortalised Fagin in the award-winning musical Oliver! – will be recounting stories from his varied career.

Alastair Campbell, the spin doctor at the heart of the Blair Government, will be making an appearance on the final day of the festival, on October 3.

The former Fleet Street political editor had a unique inside view of the Blair years – that became best-selling The Blair Years – which he has now followed up with Prelude to Power.

Festival director Sue Ryan said: “We see it as a real coup for the festival. Whatever your political views, he is a compelling speaker and it’s a great chance to put questions directly to him.”

There are also two additional events taking place. On September 24, Keith Jeffrey will be speaking about his unrestricted access to MI6 archives between 1909 and 1949 to research his history of the organisation.

On September 27, former England footballer Gary Lineker is talking about his diary of the 2010 World Cup in South Africa, called Still Dreaming.

Full listings, venues and ticket price information is online at henleyliteraryfestival.co.uk or by calling the box office, on 01189 724700.