Bridport Literary Festival has announced a last-minute line-up change to this year’s roster.

Author and journalist Alastair Campbell has been named as a late replacement for BBC journalist Jeremy Bowen, who is unable to attend the event due to reporting on the conflict in Gaza.

Campbell will therefore step in to discuss his new book ‘BUT WHAT CAN I DO? Why Politics Has Gone So Wrong and How You Can Help Fix It’ at the Electric Palace on Sunday November 5 from 6pm.

A spokesperson for the festival, said: "Alastair Campbell needs little introduction. Having first worked as a journalist for the Mirror Group, he went on to become Tony Blair’s press secretary, official spokesman and director of strategy.

"He now splits his time between writing and speaking on politics both here and overseas. His podcast, 'The Rest is Politics', in which he has joined forces with Rory Stewart, is a massive success.

Campbell is also a leading ambassador for the mental health campaign, 'Time to Change'. A Yorkshireman by birth, he is a staunch supporter of Burnley Football Club and a very proficient bagpiper."

The 19th Bridport Literary Festival kicks off this Sunday and runs until Saturday November 11, bringing an exciting and varied programme which takes place at venues all across the town

Tickets to see Bowen will be honoured for those happy with the change, but refunds will be offered to those who bought them in person or over the telephone via Bridport TIC on 01308 424901.

Tickets purchased online must be redeemed through the Electric Palace via email at boxoffice@electricpalace.org.uk