Mariella Frostrup, broadcaster, critic and author, is to launch this year's Wells Festival of Literature at a special early event to thank the festival's sponsors and Friends.

Well known for her 20 years as presenter of Open Book on BBC Radio 4, she now fronts a current affairs and culture show on @Times Radio and has recently written a best-selling book called Cracking the Menopause.

She will discuss her career, her passion for books, and campaigning journalism at the launch night on Tuesday 4 July.

Mariella's talk will be an exclusive event for Festival Friends and sponsors to thank them for their support which allows the Festival to help fund a range of educational projects in local schools and colleges

Becoming a Friend also offers priority booking and discounted tickets. Full details on how to become a friend or a sponsor can be found on the website

The main festival runs from 27 October to 4 November, featuring ten days of speakers, special events for schools, and the results of the international poetry and story competitions.

The line-up of authors and speakers will be announced in the summer, with booking opening in July.

There is also still time to enter the international competitions. These close on 30 June.