THE BOSWELL Book Festival will welcome more top literary talent this year - with a promise that East Ayrshire’s finest hospitality will make the event extra special.

While the likes of Sally Magnuson, Kirsty Wark, Damian Barr and David Crane will be at the forefront of the extravaganza, Liz Conquer will be lurking in the background ensuring everything runs smoothly.

She has been housekeeper at Auchinleck House for each of the previous two events and, even though she has recently take up a role at Dumfries House, will be back again making sure the stars are catered for.

The former Police Officer is thrilled to play her part in such an important and prestigious event in her home town.

She said: “When I was with the police, I used to patrol the house when it was derelict so always knew it existed. The late Sheriff Gow was the President of the Boswell Society and we knew each other.

“I had a coffee shop in Mauchline and he asked me if I would do champagne and canapes for the grand opening in 2000. I did the opening and that was how my association with the House started.” She continued: “When I took the job at Dumfries House I told them that the weekend of the Boswell Book Festival was sacrosanct. It gives me the opportunity of showing the authors and stars some of Ayrshire’s finest hospitality.

“I have met some wonderful people over the years. Once the doors are shut, they come into the kitchen and let their guard down.” There have been many highlights in her three years ensuring everything runs as smooth as possible.

She added: “It has been fantastic. The first year there was Kate Adie - who was a fascinating woman. She still wears the bullet from Sarajevo in a necklace.

“The most fascinating person was John Byrne. I had the pleasure of sitting at the side of the fireplace in the library with a guy that has done album covers for the Beatles and Gerry Rafferty. And here he is talking to me, smoking a rolled-up cigarette, telling me about his life. He was fascinating and so generous with his time.

“He had all the time in the world for me.” Despite leaving her role as the housekeeper at Auchinleck House, Liz insists she WILL never leave the Boswell Book Festival.

She added: “I will always come back and do the event. The reason for that is that author and broadcaster Janice Galloway sent a lovely email to Caroline Knox the Festival Director a couple of years ago.

“She said 'Auchinleck might only be in its second year but it’s already up there with the Wigtownshire Festival - however in terms of hospitality it will take a lot of beating’. That was a huge accolade for me.” And while the 18th century stately home is full of grandeur, Liz reckons it’s the no-nonsense Ayrshire hospitality that make the authors and guests enjoy the three-day event.

She added: “I just think it’s so down-to-earth. It’s just Ayrshire. I would like to think that the minute they come through the door the authors will be given a cup of tea and a tattie scone they will enjoy. They can relax, kick off their shoes and let their guard down.

“I’ve had some fascinating jobs. (Actor and author) David Ashton brought up his tuxedo to eat with HRH at Dumfries House but had no idea how to tie his bow tie - so I had to do it for him “In every respect it is just a pleasure being here and helping out.” The House has 13 bedrooms and seven beds, a library and beautiful dining area, recesses within a maze of corridors and stairs.

And this year Liz is looking forward to welcoming actress Fenella Fielding, among others, to her massive stately home.

She added: “I’m looking forward to looking after her. She is one of the more mature of the speakers and I think she will be really fascinating.

“I’m also excited about seeing Sally Magnuson (pictured left) - she’ll be talking about her book and mother’s dementia. My own mother is 94 so hopefully I’ll get the chance to speak to her.

“Kirsty Wark is coming and her book is based on Arran - which you can see from a lovely day here. There are so many though and it’s so exciting.

“There has been so many brilliant and talented people coming and it’s going to be another great three days. I can’t wait.” The Festival starts on May 9 and runs until May 11. For a full programme check out their website http://www.boswellbookfestival.co.uk/