RYEDALE Book Festival organisers have announce that Lady Juliet Tadgell has agreed to be patron of the event.

Lady Juliet Tadgell, daughter of the 8th Earl Fitzwilliam, oversees the Fitzwilliam Wentworth Estate, along with Sir Philip Naylor Leyland.

She and her husband, Dr Christopher Tadgell, now have a base in Old Malton, where her connections go back to her childhood. They visit frequently and Lady Juliet has a horse in training with Richard Fahey.

Lady Juliet said: “Now that we have a base in Old Malton I look forward to being more involved locally and I am very happy to be a patron of the Ryedale Book Festival. I look forward to being there on October 12.

“I know my grandchildren will greatly enjoy the book written by the pupils of Ryedale District primary schools, Rosie and John’s Magical Adventure. I was extremely impressed by the festival brochure and the range of events and activities therein.”

Sarah Tyson, festival co-ordinator, said: “We are simply honoured to have the patronage of Lady Juliet Tadgell at the Ryedale Book Festival, and are excited about welcoming her and her family to the 2014 event.

“Once again, there will be more than 30 events to suit anyone who enjoys a good book. The heart of the festival will be in the Milton Rooms and other exciting events will be held all over the town. We are especially excited that Michael Morpurgo will be in Malton this October to work with local school children and perform Private Peaceful.”

This year’s festival is on October 11 and 12. Visit ryedalebookfestival.com for more details.