FAMOUS faces will be heading to Hampshire this summer to take part in the Winchester Festival.

The annual event received its official launch at the city’s guildhall on Friday (April 13).

Civic dignitaries were welcomed by Tony Revell, who plans to stand down as event chairman after this year’s programme.

His successor is yet to be named, but what has been confirmed is that plenty of household names will be joining the festival.

They include actress Juliet Stevenson, along with Joan Bakewell, Ed Smith and Max Hastings, who are all promoting their latest books.

The schedule also includes live music ranging from classic works to jazz and gospel.

Mr Revell said they had tried to bring forward a programme which offered something for everyone.

He said: “We’ve also had to do a lot of internal reorganisation to get our costs down and I think we’ve achieved that.”

On the subject of funding, he then thanked Rathbones investment management for continuing as principal sponsor.

Tim Bolton Carter from the firm said the role of individual sponsors and backers was also vital.

“I wish all of you good luck and thank you so much for supporting the Winchester Festival,” he said.

Special guest Dame Mary Fagan, Lord Lieutenant of Hampshire, also paid tribute to the event.

The programme will run from Friday, July 6 to Sunday, July 15. A full schedule will be carried in the Hampshire Chronicle soon.

Tickets go on general sale on Monday, April 30. Visit winchesterfestival.co.uk or call the box office on 01962 857276 for more details.