Tickets for the Wells Festival of Literature are selling quickly since bookings opened earlier this month.

The festival, which runs from 18 to 26 October, has drawn significant interest, particularly for its opening night on Friday 18 October.

TV's Susie Dent, known as the Queen of Countdown, and human rights lawyer Shami Chakrabarti are set to headline the festival's opening night, with their talks being among the most sought-after tickets.

On Saturday afternoon, poet Pam Ayres is also proving popular, along with novelist Cecile Pin, who will be speaking on Sunday afternoon as part of the Book Club session.

Among the women authors, Harriet Wistrich, a radical feminist and human rights solicitor, is attracting significant attention. Wistrich, the founder and director of the Centre for Women's Justice, will be in conversation with Baroness Hale. Her book, Sister in Law, explores key legal cases fought for women's rights and argues that the legal system is not adequately serving half of the population.

Tickets for these events are selling fast, so residents are advised to book soon to avoid disappointment.

Male authors are also drawing interest, including current affairs presenter Jonathan Dimbleby, who will discuss Stalin's role in World War II. Classical music broadcaster Petroc Trelawney will explore the history of his native Cornwall, while Frome stonemason Andrew Ziminski will offer insights into the churches of the British Isles.

A full list of speakers and events can be found in the festival brochure, available at the Wells branch of Waterstones and various other local venues. For full details and to book tickets, visit the festival's website or call 01749 834483 during weekday mornings.