THERE was a full house for the opening event of the Boswell Book Festival at Dumfries House.

Guest writer Nigel Havers was being interviewed by Pauline McLean, BBC Scotland’s Arts Correspondent.

The interview followed a champagne reception for the lucky ticket holders, who enjoyed the evening.

Mr Havers is a fascinating character who has taken on a multitude of roles in a long career and had enough anecdotes to last for the three days of the festival, rather than the first evening.

Looking very much the gentleman, complete with bow-tie, he patiently posed for numerous selfies as well as the traditional book signing.

Organisers had set up a marquee which transformed into a typically Dumfries House venue with ornate lighting and a cosy feel to the surroundings.

Following the talk, the applause rang long and loud into the night and Boswell Book Festival 2017 was well and truly underway.

If Friday had set the standard, Saturday and Sunday maintained it with distinction, with variety the key to living up to the adage of something for everyone.

Festival director, Carline Knox said: “You don’t have to just love books to love this Festival.

“The range of life stories that populated the programme was incredible from actors, bakers, plant hunters, lovers and adventurers, to war heroes, judges, poets, painters, financiers and Tsars.

“And that’s not to mention our Children’s Festival, which had a thrilling programme of interactive events and appearances by leading children’s writers and illustrators.

“Thanks to our main sponsor, Creative Scotland, this was our biggest ever festival spread over six venues at beautiful Dumfries House including a newly added marquee and the Great Stewart’s Dining Room.

“The rich choice on offer reflects our pride at being the world’s only festival of biography and memoir inspired by the father of modern biography and proud Ayrshireman, James Boswell.”

Having taken a breather, Ms Knox and her team are already thinking about 2018, which will be the eighth staging of the festival.

Social media was inundated with positive feedback, including Patricia Harris who said it was a ‘fabulous event with such diverse and interesting sessions.’