Recently named among the top 30 literature festivals in the UK by The Times newspaper, Aspects has built a reputation for bringing challenging and thought-provoking writers to North Down.

Over the past 17 years it has hosted readings and discussions featuring authors from across Northern Ireland and beyond.

The festival is based in the North Down Museum, but also takes in other venues across Bangor.

Highlights include David Park talking about his latest novel, The Truth Commissioner, later this evening.

The author, who lives in Co Down, has won various awards for his six books.

Journalist and commentator Malachi O’Doherty will discuss his new book at the festival.

Empty Pulpits – Ireland’s Retreat from Religion examines a country which is caught between faith and atheism, and promises a typically incisive account of the national psyche.

There will also be music from Bap Kennedy, the homegrown star who has just returned from a global tour with Dire Straits’ frontman Mark Knopfler.

He will be joined by Brendan Murphy from The 4 Of Us and Coleraine singer-songwriter Anthony Toner tomorrow night.

Ballymoney poet Cherry Smyth will be making an appearance on Sunday at the final day of the festival, alongside Pat Boran and Emer Martin.

Award-winning journalist Stephen Walker will be talking about his book Forgotten Soldiers on Sunday, which tells of how 28 Irish men serving in British Regiments during World War I met their deaths.

Aspects literary festival continues until Sunday. For more information, or to book tickets, contact the box office on 2127 1200 or log on to www.aspectsfestival.co.uk