Authors share their literary loves at city's celebration of reading.

ACCLAIMED authors joined literary lovers at Liverpool's Central Library on Saturday for a special celebration of reading.

Dame Beryl Bainbridge and Frank Cottrell Boyce arrived for Reader's Day, part of the library's contribution to Capital of Culture and National Year of Reading.

Formby-born, prize-winning novelist Dame Beryl talked to guests about her distinguished career and literary output. She was then joined by Liverpool's celebrated screenwriter and children's author, Frank Cottrell Boyce, for a discussion about their favourite writing with a local connection.

The city council's executive member for libraries, Cllr Keith Turner, said: "Liverpool Central Library's literary programme for Capital of Culture has been absolutely outstanding, with something for everyone.

"The arrival of Dame Beryl Bainbridge and Frank Cottrell Boyce for this special event is yet another fantastic coup for the library.

"Readers' Day has given local people a unique opportunity to meet two of Merseyside's best-known authors, and discover more about the wonderful literature inspired by Liverpool, its people, places, architecture and waterfront."

Poet Andrew Taylor also attended the free event and led a discussion on the power of poetry to help people through difficult times.

Deborah Mulhearn, editor of the Mersey Minis, provided an insight into her writing, which explores the city's heritage, while Francis Boyce, father of Frank Cottrell Boyce, discussed Liverpool authors with seafaring roots.

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Dame Beryl Bainbridge and Frank Cottrell Boyce at Liverpool's Central Library Picture: EDDIE BARFORD/eb221108cwriters-1