Writer and radio presenter Ian McMillan and novelist Deborah Moggach are the leading names at Compton Verney's weekend of family fun activities inspired by books, reading and writing.

This evening, Ian McMillan, presenter of Radio 3's The Verb and Barnsley Football Club's 'Poet Laureate', introduces some new writing by young people and performs his own hliarious verses.

Ian will be joined by poet Roz Goddard, reading poems from her new collection How to Dismantle a Hotel Room.

Deborah Moggach's film adaptation of Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice, which starred Keira Knightley and Matthew Macfadyen, was a tremendous success. You can hear her talk on Sunday afternoon about the pleasures and pitfalls of turning a classic novel into a great screenplay.

Other activities over the weekend include storytelling for all ages, under-fives Bounce and Rhyme sessions, designing your own pop-up book, picture bookmaking, poetry and music, as well as a children's trail.

There will also be costumed book characters to look out for and a chance to browse in the mobile library or let the Book Doctor recommend a good read and discover free books around the house and grounds.

Many other scheduled performances are being held over the weekend, which opens from 11am to 5pm and is £4 for adults and free for children. Tickets for the Ian McMillan and Deborah Moggach talks are extra.

Compton Verney, a Grade-1 listed mansion, is set amid lush grounds. It can be reached via junction 12 on the M40 after Banbury.

For more information on the weekend contact Compton Verney on 01926 645500 or Warwickshire Libraries on 01926 412867.