THE brother of the late Diana, Princess of Wales, and Tony Blair's former spin doctor are two of the latest names confirmed for the Bridport Literary Festival.

Charles Spencer will be speaking about his new book, ‘The White Ship’, which focuses on the sinking of the vessel and the death of William, Duke of Normandy’, the son and heir of King Henry I.

And Alastair Campbell, who was Tony Blair’s chief spokesman and strategist and has since campaigned to break down the stigma surrounding mental illness, will be talking about his book, Living Better.

Earl Spencer has developed a reputation for fast-paced, historical writing. He visited Bridport in 2017, to give a talk on 'To Catch A King: Charles II's Great Escape', his book about King Charles II’s six weeks on the run – which featured time hiding in west Dorset. This year, he’ll be in conversation with Sally Laverack about The White Ship.

Written to mark the 900th anniversary of the disaster, the author evokes the brutal story of the Normans.

He will be speaking at the festival on Thursday, November 5 at 4.30pm.

Alastair Campbell has just brought out Living Better, described as an ‘honest, moving and life affirming account of his lifelong struggle with depression’.

It is an autobiographical, psychological and psychiatric study, which explores his childhood, family and other relationships, and examines the impact of his professional and political life on himself and those around him.

It also lays bare his relentless quest to understand depression, not just through his own life but through different treatments.

Alastair Campbell will be in conversation with Susannah Simons at the Electric Palace on Thursday, November 5 at 6.30pm.

Others to appear include stonemason Andrew Ziminski, who has worked on many of the greatest monuments and buildings in Britain, and Dan Pearson whose book, ‘Tokachi Millennium Forest’, reveals tips on how to plant gardens that fit their location and help reconnect with the land and wildlife surrounding them.

The event featuring Peter York on Saturday, November 7 has had to be cancelled as he is unable to attend for personal reasons. Ticket holders will be refunded.

Check out bridlit.com for the full festival line-up and more information. Tickets can also be booked through Bridport Tourist Information Centre on 01308 424901.