BEST-selling author Jeffery Deaver visited Dorchester and addressed the 150 eager fans seated in the Old Crown Court.

The American crime author came to publicise his new thriller The Broken Window and to celebrate the National Year of Reading.

Fans listened to Mr Deaver talk about the characters in his book whilst sat in the old judge's chair in the court.

He then answered questions from fans sat in the jury box and public gallery.

The prize-winning author told them that he was recently a victim of identity fraud and that this gave him inspiration for his novels.

He said: "I have never done a talk in an old court like this before. It is amazing here and very atmospheric."

One of the organisers, Linda Antell, from Dorset County Council, said: "The visit has caused quite a bit of interest and he has such a large following.

"The setting in the old courts makes for a nice intimate venue."

Former Wall Street Journal journalist Mr Deaver worked as a solicitor before he wrote his first novel in 1990.

He went on to write 23 novels and a collection of short stories and his book The Bone Collector was made into a Hollywood blockbuster starring Denzel Washington.

Mr Deaver is the three-time recipient of the Ellery Queen Reader's award for best short story of the year. After the talk the author signed copies of his books.