This year's Chester Literature Festival boasts a strong line-up of big names from the world of books, stage and screen.

Taking place at Storyhouse from 12 May to 14 June, the festival will feature writers in a programme of talks, workshops, poetry, theatre and more.

Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall, Corinne Bailey Rae, Celia Imrie, Nigel Planer and Susie Dent are among the newly confirmed guest speakers.

Previously announced names includie Hamnet author Maggie O'Farrell, Lenny Henry, historian Kate Williams, wildlife presenter Hamza Yassin, historian Ruth Goodman and William Dalrymple.

Opening the festival is writer and broadcaster Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall, who will discuss his new book High Fibre Heroes, followed by singer-songwriter Corinne Bailey Rae, appearing in conversation about her debut children's book.

Other headline events include appearances from Andrea McLean, comedian Lenny Henry, wildlife presenter Hamza Yassin and historian Ruth Goodman.

The programme also features poetry, theatre and workshops - with contributors including Celia Imrie, Brian Bilston and Caroline Corcoran, as well as industry sessions offering advice on writing and publishing.

Later highlights include events with historian William Dalrymple, novelist Maggie O'Farrell and lexicographer Susie Dent, before the festival concludes with historian Kate Williams and ceramicist Keith Brymer Jones.

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"Books are at the centre of what we do at Storyhouse – not only through the festival but through our library, which sits at the heart of our building and our community," said Storyhouse creative director, Suzie Henderson.

"The festival brings together an extraordinary range of writers, performers and thinkers for a month of talks, events, workshops and performances that celebrate books, poetry and storytelling in all their forms.

"We're looking forward to welcoming audiences into Storyhouse to celebrate the joy of reading."

Chester Literature Festival is Storyhouse's annual celebration of books, poetry and storytelling, and is one of the longest running literature festivals in the country.

Launched in 1989 by volunteer arts organisation Chester Arts 89 and local booksellers, the festival began with a week of literary events, including a reading by the niece of novelist DH Lawrence.

For more details on Storyhouse visit www.storyhouse.com