A GHOST story by Henry James, an evening with a top fiction writer and a top orchestra will feature in Ripon International Festival from September 3-17.

The event, now in its eighth year, has widespread backing from sponsors, donors, audiences, its group of Friends and a host of volunteers to offer a fully-rounded fortnight of culture for the region.

A dramatised version of The Turn of the Screw by Henry James will star the distinguished RSC and West End theatre actress, Philippa Urquhart, in a performance at the medieval manor house, Markenfield Hall, near Ripon, on September 4. She will play the young governess who struggles to save two children from the forces of evil.

Bishop Monkton Village Hall will host an evening with comic fiction writer David Nobbs on September 12. The author of The Fall & Rise of Reginald Perrin offers a witty sideways look at life. His books have been adapted for stage and screen with great success. He will sign copies of his latest offering Sex and Other Changes.

On September 17, Ripon Cathedral hosts the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra playing music by Wagner, Brahms and Mahler.

Amid other concerts and events, including a puppet show and play for young children, there will be a tour of historic churches led by Ripon historian, Maurice Taylor.

The trip takes in Baldersby St James, Dalton, Thirsk for a lunch stop, Felixkirk, Coxwold and Byland Abbey. Tickets cost £20 and include coach travel; this event is on September 7, from 9.15-4.30.

Masham will again have a concert by candlelight, with the Chilingirian Quartet, on September 15, and the international flavour of the festival this year extends to Japan for a thrilling percussion show on the taiko (big drums).

Sponsors of the festival include The Darlington & Stockton Times. For more details and to book, tel 01765 603994. Fred Willis