Famous faces visit Borders Book Festival

Lord Paddy Ashdown, former Liberal Democrat leader, was persuaded to visit the Borders Book Festival by comedian Rory Bremner.

He said the festival was the 'most hospitable' in Britain:

Rory Bremner, comedian and impressionist, talks about the many visitors of the Borders Book Festival, from Pink Floyd stars to political figures.

Jennifer Saunders says she was 'shocked' at the recent death of comedian Rik Mayall.

Jennifer and Rik Mayall had worked together previously. Her husband, Ade Edmondson, had worked with Rik in shows such as 'Bottom' and 'The Young Ones' .

Jennifer Saunders, speaking to Tim Backshall at the Borders Book Festival, tells us about her career highlights:

Steve Backshall, writer and star of children's show 'Deadly 60', talks about why he's in the Borders and his aims of making wildlife and conservation more interesting to his audience.

Steve Backshall talks to reporter Tim Backshall, the clue is in the surname:

Jennifer Saunders is at the Borders Book Festival to promote the paperback version of her book 'Bonkers'.

Jennifer says she was motivated to write a book about the funniest parts of her life:

The Borders Book Festival is taking place in Melrose. The festival runs from the 12th - 15th June and will see various celebrities attending.

An organiser describes the event to Tim Backshall. He describes it as being like a 'big party'.

The Borders Book Festival gets underway in the Scottish Borders today.

The festival, part of this year's Homecoming Scotland campaign, is expected to attract hundreds of visitors and a host of famous faces, including actress Jennifer Saunders and former Prime Minister Gordon Brown.