Davies to grace literary festival

Russell T Davies also writes Doctor Who spin off Torchwood

Doctor Who writer Russell T Davies is among a host of famous names appearing at this year's Cheltenham Literature Festival, organisers have announced.

He will be joined by Torchwood star John Barrowman in a discussion about the hit sci-fi shows.

Dawn French will talk about her life as a comedy star, while actress Julie Walters will unveil her life story.

The literary festival is due to take place in the Gloucestershire spa town from 10-19 October.

Family themes

Veteran film stars Richard Attenborough and Roger Moore will share their views on the glamour of Hollywood, while TV survival expert Ray Mears will talk about his book Bushcraft.

Among the well-known writers taking part in the event are best-selling author Jilly Cooper who will discuss sex in literature, and Will Self who will explore the last taboos in writing.

Fay Weldon will also be among a group of authors exploring the portrayal of families in literature.

Television presenter Richard Madeley will lead a discussion about fatherhood, while actress Sheila Hancock will talk about life without actor husband John Thaw in a family-themed festival.

This year's event is being guest directed by former BBC correspondent Kate Adie and author Ian Rankin.

Davies announced he was to step down as executive producer of Doctor Who earlier this year.

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