The familiar face of BBC News, George Alagiah, will join celebrated broadcaster and writer Stuart Maconie at the festival which features 35 different literary events across Wigan Borough from Monday, March 24 to Saturday, April 5.

Words is now in its fifth year and is well established as one of the most engaging and exciting event in the borough's cultural calendar. The festival is organised by a voluntary festival committee in partnership with Wigan Leisure and Culture Trust.
This year's event features a diverse selection of author visits, writing workshops, live poetry performances, visual arts, music and even calligraphy.

Words '08 co-ordinator Gillian Forrester said: "We are extremely proud of our festival and firmly believe it is one of the best and most diverse literary events in the North West.
"It is an innovative event that is becoming increasingly popular among an audience that includes all ages and backgrounds. We also give opportunities for local talent to have a platform to perform and enjoy the festival's unique atmosphere.
"As well as the huge names such as George Alagiah and Stuart Maconie we also host more intimate events that give people a chance to get involved.
"We are also welcoming back our favourite vampire poet Rosie Lugosi and are excited to include a visit by the likes of Vincent Smith, Chris Tutton and the fabulous Jim Eldridge.
"Everyone is welcome at this year's festival, all of our events are free or very affordable and we extend a warm welcome to everyone who comes along."

Six O'clock news anchorman George Alagiah will appear at Wigan Town Hall on Saturday March 29.
The 52-year-old Sri Lankan will give a personal insight into his struggle with cultural identity as a child and his development into one of the UK's most respected journalists.

Much loved broadcaster and writer Stuart Maconie returns home to the Words Festival for the third time. Stuart, whose book Pies and Prejudice has stimulated nationwide debate about the North/South divide, will appear at the Turnpike Centre Leigh on Thursday April 3. Following on from Stuart's popular BBC Four show Pop on Trial the audience will be invited to join the debate for about which was the best decade for popular culture.
Many events at the festival are free but audiences are urged to book early to avoid disappointment.
Tickets for George Alagiah – A Personal View of Multiculturalism in the UK are available from the Tourist Information Centre priced £10. Call 01942 825677 for details. An Afternoon with Stuart Maconie is a free event but tickets must be reserved at Leigh Library. Call 01942 404404 for details.

Words festival guides are available at all of the borough's 16 libraries, Wigan Tourist Information Centre and all festival venues.
For further information contact Words Festival Co-ordinator Gillian Forrester on 01942 486921 or visit www.wlct.org/festivalfever.