THE organisers of the Swindon Festival of Literature expect this week’s activities to really pack a punch as the event gets into full swing.

The annual programme began on Monday with a Dawn Chorus at Lawn Woods, which kick started a packed schedule of activities, which run until Saturday, May 16.

Today, the Arts Centre, in Old Town, will host writers Bruce Fogle, Jung Chang, Patrick Gayle and Eve McBride, while Mark Everard will be giving a talk at Lower Shaw Farm, in West Swindon.

The sessions will feature book readings and a question session to get the writers’ perspective.

“It was a remarkable start and there was a brilliant atmosphere with four outdoor events on Monday which sold out and had ideal weather conditions,” said festival director Matt Holland.

“Today we have a good mix of stuff with the vet Bruce Fogle, father of the famous Ben, starting things and Chinese author Dr Jung Chang has come over with the tickets for her selling really well.

“That really says something about Swindon and the surrounding area that the continental flavour to festival is a big draw.”

Matt said he was proud of the line up with the being something for everyone on the bill.

He said: “I’m looking forward to the full programme of events being well received. I’m on tenterhooks a bit as these plans were put into place in the dark days of November and December. It will be interesting to see how it all goes in the realities of spring.”

One of the events the festival director is particularly looking forward to is writer Anna Whitham’s talk about her book, Boxer Handsome, with Paddy Fitzpatrick.

This is taking place at the Arts Centre at 8pm tomorrow.

Anna’s book is a fictional piece which addresses why people take up boxing and how it affects those around them. There will be useful input from Swindon-based boxing trainer Paddy, who trained George Groves.

Matt said: “It should be a fascinating event reflecting on what drives boxers and the respect among competitors.

“It is an usual event for the festival but one I’m very much looking forward to.”

For more information about the full programme and ticket information swindonfestivalofliterature.co.uk